Daniel van der Plaats works as a measurement and control technician at Croonwolter&dros, one of the larger technical service providers in the Netherlands that makes iconic buildings and critical infrastructure safe, comfortable, and sustainable.
Croonwolter&dros saw opportunities to better serve their customers with smarter climate technology. That's why Daniel started a pilot, with the goal of proactively finding solutions for complex building management issues. VBoptimum was selected as a partner because of their combined expertise in AI and building installations.
"Leading the way, not following behind"
"I like to look to the future. I thought: We need to make sure we're at the forefront. We need to join forces with these kinds of smart control systems with AI, so that we're not lagging behind later," says Daniel.
"As a software engineer, I've worked with several suppliers using these kinds of techniques. The big difference I've seen with VBoptimum is that they really know how buildings and installations are put together. And if an installation doesn't work properly, they just say so. Then we work together to solve the shortcomings first."
The big difference: Thorough preparation is half the work
Daniel noticed how much difference VBoptimum's good preparation made, particularly with a challenging project in Amsterdam. Croonwolter&dros had taken over maintenance here because there had been complaints about the climate for years, with 40 to 50 reports per month.
Daniel: "We solved many problems there before we even made the entire system in the building self-steering. If during the preparation it appears that something will become a stumbling block, they just say so honestly. It can save a lot of time and money to know that right at the beginning. You get a proper report anyway, so you know exactly what's wrong and what you need to do."
Great success after 5 years of complaints
With this approach, the persistent problems could finally be solved: At this complex, after a full 5 years of cold and heat complaints, the number of disruptions finally went down to almost zero, to the great satisfaction of users and management.
Pleasant collaboration with top technician
For companies like Croonwolter&dros, the shortage of real technical specialists is a bottleneck. That's why the collaboration with technicians at VBoptimum is particularly valuable. And not just for the technical knowledge, but also for the pleasantness. Daniel likes to talk about his good contact with Jorret Westerbaan from VBoptimum.
"We can call each other at any time, in the night if necessary. He always helps me. That's what you want in a collaboration, but not necessarily what you expect. Now we also talk about personal things, which makes it more pleasant to speak to each other."
Many opportunities to better serve customers together
Daniel sees plenty of opportunities to help Croonwolter&dros' customers move forward; within the company, he therefore engages in conversations with colleagues at all levels.
The project in Amsterdam is a good proof for Daniel of what can be solved and made possible with smarter climate technology. That's why he involves partners like VBoptimum in discussions with customers when necessary, so they can be even better informed.
"At a hotel where occupancy and load are variable, we can also provide advice on optimal control in collaboration with VBoptimum, with the ATES installation. And in Utrecht, we may be able to work on 150 schools."
No more doubt
After his many experiences with VBoptimum, Daniel is unequivocally positive about the collaboration and results.
"The strongest thing is when people become convinced on their own. That happened to me too: there was simply no more doubt. THAT is the greatest strength."
Are you curious about what VBoptimum's approach can mean for your building? Or would you like to brainstorm with Jorret?
Feel free to contact us, we'd be happy to tell you more.
