On my continued quest for innovation in the AEC space, I am in Austria, exploring the charming city of Salzburg. I was inspired by the stunning backdrop—the majestic mountains, the fast-flowing Salzach River, and the centuries-old domes and fortresses perched high on the cliffs. It feels like time has stood still since Mozart walked these streets over 250 years ago. Yet, amidst this timeless setting, I discovered a hub of technological innovation that is embracing the future of AEC.
I had the pleasure of meeting with two experts at the University of Salzburg: Dr. Manfred Mittlböck, Senior Scientist, and Dr. Shaily Ghandi, Principal Researcher. Together, we explored the forward-thinking "Smart Campus" initiative, which connects the university’s historic buildings—scattered across the city—using a comprehensive digital twin model.
Dr. Manfred and his team's work with digital twins and IoT sensors stands out for its community-engaging approach. Like many older institutions, The University of Salzburg, faces the challenge of managing a dispersed, historically significant campus. While many universities have adopted digital tools, few have done so on a campus as steeped in heritage as Salzburg’s, where balancing preservation with modernization is important.
Their solution? A digital twin—a data-rich virtual model of the campus that mirrors its physical spaces and occupancy in real time. By integrating IoT sensors, 360-degree panoramas, and facilities data, they are creating a dynamic system that continuously monitors building activities, energy usage, and even the movement of people across the campus. This initiative ensures efficient facilities management and respects the heritage of the buildings with minimal disruption.
One of the most unique aspects of the University of Salzburg’s approach is how it uses the digital twin for purposes beyond facility management. While it is invaluable for monitoring building conditions and addressing issues like MEP performance or energy consumption, the digital twin also enhances the everyday experiences of students, faculty, and visitors.
For example, IoT sensors provide real-time updates on room occupancy, environmental conditions, and security alerts. This allows students to easily find available study spaces, while faculty can optimize space usage and plan for future events and needs. In many ways, the digital twin transforms the campus into a living entity that adapts to the needs of its occupants, creating a more engaging and efficient environment.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this project is how technology is seamlessly integrated into a 17th-century heritage campus without compromising its historic value. This balance is especially evident in the university's use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and sensor technologies. By utilizing BIM, Revit data, drones, and 360-degree scans, they have created a detailed base model of the campus that includes both interior and exterior spaces. This model allows for the integration of facility information and real-time data from sensors, which facility managers can use to monitor conditions and streamline communication.
In our discussion, Dr. Shaily emphasized that 3D GIS is key to understanding the future of cities that expand in every dimension—where 3D spaces blend architecture, history, technology, and nature. These dynamic environments evolve alongside their inhabitants, fostering creativity, connectivity, and sustainability. Implementing 3D cities isn’t just about advancing urban design but redefining what’s possible.
One of the most inspiring takeaways from my conversation with Dr. Manfred was his vision for the digital twin as a tool for empowerment at the university and within the broader community. He envisions the digital twin as an open platform that engages students, provides real-time urban data, and enhances efficiency in logistics and transportation across the campus. Students can navigate the campus inside and out, through a living digital document, coordinating occupancy and schedules for events and spaces via virtual reality guided by the digital twin. It’s rewarding to see how Dr. Manfred involves his students in real-life learning experiences, preparing them for their professional futures.
Dr. Manfred’s work shows that the potential of digital twins goes far beyond campus operations. It’s about creating a connected, smart city where technology enhances everyday life for everyone—from facilities staff to students to the broader community.
My time in Salzburg left me inspired and optimistic about the future of AEC innovation. The work being done at the University of Salzburg shows that even in a city steeped in history, there is room for cutting-edge technology. Blending heritage preservation with digital solutions like BIM, IoT, and digital twins is a powerful example of how the past and future can coexist harmoniously.
As I continue my journey, I am eager to see how other historic campuses and institutions around the world will adopt these innovations. For now, Salzburg stands as a prime example of how the AEC industry can embrace the future while honoring its past, demonstrating how digital twins can empower communities beyond daily facility operations.
