Osmos Global Publication · Osmos Perspective
Interoperability Is a Procurement Requirement
Integration risk is often created before systems are installed
IFMA's digital-thread guidance identifies fragmented lifecycle information as a source of cost and process inefficiency.[7]
Analysis
Interoperability is weakened when procurement omits common identifiers, open interfaces, export rights, semantic definitions, update responsibilities and support periods.
Osmos Global analysis: integration should be treated as a lifecycle control, not a post-installation IT task. The buyer must retain usable data and continuity through vendor or platform change.
Leadership implication: a low purchase price can create expensive dependency when operational data cannot move or integrations are proprietary.
Decision lens
Recommended action. Include a standard interoperability and data-exit schedule in every building-technology contract.
Cite this
Osmos Global Research & Knowledge Centre (2026). Interoperability Is a Procurement Requirement. Osmos Perspective, Osmos Global. https://www.osmosglobal.org/articles/interoperability-is-a-procurement-requirement
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Discussion
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