May 2018 - The Internet of Things

NAVIGATING PUBLIC HOUSING a newsletter from Navigate Affordable Housing Partners

IoT use by the ages

the internet of things

Everything is connected now. Yes, even Public Housing. How you can make smart  technology work for  your budget.

Also...

Cybersecurity Assistive Technology for aging in place Sweet Ways to Welcome Warmer Days: Two refreshing recipes to try and share!

issue 03 May 2018 NavigateHousingConsulting.com

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the internet of things IoT: “the connection of devices (other than typical fare such as computers and smartphones) to the Internet.” -Andrew Meola, Business Insider

BY EBONY HALL

Thermostats Smoke and CO2 Detectors Cameras Lights Smart Locks Leak Detection Motion Sapiurka says you can shut down an HVAC unit remotely and “never pay for vacant utilities again.”

Your PHA could save money by plugging into the “Internet of Things (IoT). But how?

We live in a very connected world.

Statista estimates there will be 23.14 billion connected devices worldwide in 2018. Chances are, your residents have access to a smartphone. In fact, 86% of U.S. Consumers own one. Pew Research reports that a growing number of lower-income Americans “rely on smartphones to access the internet.. One-in-five adults whose annual household income falls below $30,000 are smartphone-only internet users, compared with only 4% of those living in households earning $100,000 or more.”

Adding smart products to your units gives residents more control, which they enjoy. But, how can you use this to your advantage? Your PHA could save money by plugging into the “Internet of Things (IoT).

But how?

At a 2017 meeting of the National Affordable Housing Management Association, RealPages’ Gustavo Sapiurka says one of the trends in Multifamily Housing includes “things” that are connected. They include:

A leaky toilet can waste around 6000 gallons/month. It could cost thousands per year! The Wirecutter tested leak detectors in 2016, for things like the ability to detect leaks, how they’re connected to the internet and how they alert the owner to a leak.

Their tests lead them to water sensor from D-Link, which C-Net declared the best “flood sensor” for 2018.

"Companies using IoT sensors and systems to control heat and air conditioning usage in large facilities can save serious dollars."

JILL KRASNY, INC.COM

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Smart locks can also increase productivity.

Buildings.com explains how smart locks can make your property managers more efficient:

“When a tenant moves out, property owners or managers no longer have to worry about getting the key back or having to re-key the lock. Property owners and managers can simply log in and deactivate a previous tenant’s smartphone access to the unit.”

Smart locks also “a great solution to the ageold issue of lost keys,” says Cradlepoint’s Hubert Da Costa. “Only requiring a smartphone with a matching signal to unlock them, access controls can be managed in a centralised [sic] online system.”

Having any smart technology can increase your marketability. Your property will stand out from the competition. It can also make property management more efficient. The only downside is that technology is constantly changing and upgrading! Today’s smart lock device will keep today’s resident happy until they move. Your new resident, however, may expect the latest and greatest technology in that unit.

PHAs also have to be mindful of the “hackability” of these connected devices. For more on that, check out this interactive look at “Your Hackable House” from CNNMoney.

Funding is an issue The Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) sometimes issues solicitations (called Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs)) for specific projects that it has a programmatic interest is on the EERE Exchange website EERE Exchange.

Hey, how does your PHA use smart tech? Let us know.

"a great solution to the age-old issue of lost keys" 40 B

30 B

20 B

10 B

0B 2018

2019

2020

2021

This statistic shows the number of connected devices (Internet of Things; IoT) worldwide from 2015 to 2021.

For 2021, the installed base of Internet of Things devices is forecast to grow to almost 36 billion worldwide. The overall Internet of Things market is projected to be worth more than one billion U.S. dollars annually from 2017 onwards. -Statista

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Last Fall, Housing Technology surveyed hundreds of what are called "social housing providers" in the United Kingdom.

The comprehensive survey asked the providers about how they are using IoT devices and how they plan to use them in the future.

They also asked about what areas of IoT provide benefits to both the providers and residents.

Customer Service 50% 40%

40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Pr ov id er Re sid en t

housing tech benefits across the pond

Better Maintenance

Reduced Cost 30%

20%

10%

0% Pr ov id er Re sid en t

connectivity can have its benefits for Housing Authorities and Residents

Real-Time Data 40% 30%

30%

10%

10%

0%

0% Pr ov id er Re sid en t

20%

Pr ov id er Re sid en t

20%

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Tools to improve the everyday

Assistive Technology (Family Features) Most Americans want to stay in their homes as they age. Not a bad plan, but what if your home doesn't fit you as well as it once did?

Often, aging can be accompanied by a change in your ability to manage and move around in your home. That's where assistive technology - better known as AT comes in. No matter your age or what type of disability you may have, chances are there is an AT device out there that can help you with everyday tasks.

AT isn't a new concept. In fact, most people have probably used an assistive device without realizing it. Smartphones, voice command technology and certain types of software all fall under the AT umbrella. AT also includes plenty of low-tech devices, like adapted pencil grips for students with disabilities.

There's an ever-growing variety of AT tools available to help with household chores, work functions, getting around, seeing, hearing, learning and living independently in general.

Photo Credit: Getty

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These devices and technologies are designed to help older adults and people with disabilities, but you may find that these tools can make life easier for anyone. Examples of AT devices and tools include: Hearing aids Vehicle modifications, such as hand controls or wheelchair lifts Devices that help with bathing and eating Software modifications for those with hearing and visual challenges Equipment, such as grab bars in a shower, to help prevent falls Eyeglasses and magnification devices to help individuals with low vision Communication devices for individuals with speech disabilities Wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility devices

The right AT for you At first, trying to find the right AT tools and solutions can feel overwhelming. The network of State Assistive Technology Act Programs is a good place to start. Your state AT Act program can provide information and support to help you identify and acquire AT that meets your needs. These programs offer: Device demonstration and short-term loan programs that allow you to try out equipment before purchasing Reuse programs that provide gently used devices at substantial savings Financing options, such as cash loan programs, that can help you get the AT devices you need You can find the AT Act Program in your state or territory at acl.gov/AT. You'll also find additional information on state AT programs, data about the network of state AT programs and additional resources to help you find and obtain AT that fits your needs.

With more research and awareness around the importance of AT, the future possibilities for living independently in the place of your choosing are almost limitless.

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the risks of IoT: cybersecurity

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BY EBONY HALL

tips from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ):

"The home is meant to be a place to enjoy privacy. However, connecting it to the smart grid, the cloud providers of each smart device’s manufacturer and to wireless networks dramatically increases privacy risks." - The Internet of Things in Housing The Internet of things is "wrapped in privacy concerns," according to Consumer Reports.

"Connected devices often ask users to input personal information, such as their name, age, gender, email address, home address, phone number, and social media accounts.

That information can be very valuable to hackers..."

This is why, according to Housing Technology, more than a third of housing providers have "'considerable concerns' and overall over 80 percent are worried about the security of IoT devices and how IoT data is transmitted, handled and stored."

Just 17% are not concerned.

As you consider integrating IoT into or expanding IoT in your PHA communities, think about these

Research: Make sure the "manufacturer takes cybersecurity seriously." If the device has a password, does it allow your agency to change the password? Will the manufacturer offer security updates to combat new malware and security threats?"

Secure the devices immediately: The DOJ says a device that is "not secured secured may be exploited within minutes of being connected to the Internet."

Have IT go to the manufacturer website and download any security patches. These patches should be able to repair any vulnerabilities.

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A SINGLE IOT DEVICE THAT IS VULNERABLE CAN ALLOW AN INTRUDER TO PENETRATE YOUR ENTIRE NETWORK..

Reset default passwords with secure ones: They should "use a combination of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols."

Update firmware when available: Automatic updates are ideal. If they are not available, be sure your IT department checks the manufacturer website periodically "for firmware updates and device patches to ensure your IoT devices are current and running the latest and most secure firmware update." The DOJ suggests installing only the updates that are from "known, reputable sites."

Think about disconnecting your "insecure" IoT devices: "If your IoT devices cannot, at a minimum, be updated with strong passwords or receive security patches, they may be vulnerable to malware infection. You should consider disconnecting such devices and replacing them with newer, secure models."

Turn off IoT devices periodically: According to the DOJ, you can often erase malware used in "recent cyber attacks" with a "power cycle."

The DOJ suggests turning off devices when not in use. Those devices that you use regularly "should be restarted periodically."

Protect routers and Wi-Fi networks: Your IT department will secure these and enable Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) only if necessary.

Avoid "single point of failure:" A single IoT device that is vulnerable can "allow an intruder to penetrate your entire network and access other devices on your network."

This "weak link" could be devastating to your residents. If you segment your network, it will be more difficult for hackers to access the devices and information. You can also create a "guest network."

Be careful with smartphones: If you want to access IoT devices via a smartphone, it's a good practice to "avoid using public Wi-Fi networks that are not password protected." If you must use a public Wi-Fi, the DOJ suggests using a virtual private network (VPN) before opening any IoT applications.

Use anti-virus and intrusion products that protect IoT devices: The DOJ says "they can detect abnormal behavior on any device communicating on your network."

Get technical assistance: Always consult your IT experts to make sure the network remains secure and up to date.

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Buggy Software Needs A Fix

BY JULIE REYNOLDS

Protecting Resident Information One of the most important questions you need to ask when purchasing new software or upgrading existing software is: "How long does it take for bug fixes?"

Fixing them is especially important when it comes to software security and IoT. Bugs, left unchecked, can compromise "integrity, authentication and availability" and leave your system vulnerable to an attack. These malware attacks can "steal information" or crash the system.

Some companies will say that they will fix software issues as soon as you find one. There are others that will compile the list of “bug” fixes and release it on a scheduled basis convenient for them. This can happen either monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly or yearly.

Neither path is better or worse, as long as you are dealing with a reputable software company that stays true to their word. Knowing this before purchasing the software allows you to handle your software endusers better and enables you to provide a more accurate time frame of when your users will see changes or have their issues resolved.

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quick case study how IoT benefits maintenance Zurich Municipal in the United Kingdom wanted to test if IoT would help save money and if it was worth the investment in connected water leak devices. They found issues at five of the seven properties tested. These issues included a toilet that ran constantly and wasted water and a washing machine with a loose fitting.

damp and mould. This can be a source of many housing association repair claims, which are not insurable."

Zurich Municipal also found something they did not expect. The smart devices would likely reduce their maintenance costs.

"The motion sensor fed back data which showed that the workers were not always at the premises for the expected hours," Whittington said. "As soon as they were told there were motion sensors at the property, they started turning up on time.”

Allison Zurich, the Head of Housing, said the devices " revealed the humidity was at a level that would create a perfect environment for

They also used motion detectors on one property "to protect against theft and intrusion," providing an added benefit.

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How will your residents and staff respond to a more connected community?

Not every generation may be as comfortable as the one before it when it comes to incorporating IoT in everyday life. Researchers have looked at how use varies by age. What they have found could be useful to you as you introduce newer technology to your residents and staff.

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Living in the age of IoT

BY EBONY HALL

HOW AGE AFFECTS USE BABY BOOMERS (BORN 1946 - 1964) DeVry says Baby Boomers have embraced "evolving technology," having witnessed the evolution of everything from 8-tracks to artificial intelligence. This generation can benefit from IoT devices that can improve health and lifestyle.

It's expected, writes Kayla Matthews, that technological breakthroughs can help make Baby Boomers "more comfortable."

"Senior housing will have to step up to meet the new technology demands of tomorrow’s older adults," says Joseph Coughlin. While many senior housing firms are beginning to integrate technology to improve their operations and the well-being of their residents, future buyers and family caregivers will expect technologies that can be used directly by residents."

GENERATION X (BORN 1960 - 1980) Matthews says Generation X is more comfortable with technology than you might think, and this positive attitude toward IoT "is rubbing off" on Baby Boomers.

Gen X'ers have embraced smart home devices like home security systems, lighting, and thermostats (DeVry). In fact, the Generation X "adoption rate" of "smart home devices" almost doubled that of Millennials. Essence says the main reason is

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"financial liquidity." This generation primarily uses IoT for home security and energy savings.

MILLENNIALS- "GEN Y" (BORN 1980 - 1995) Millennials, on the other hand, use IoT for convenience. Essence says about 50% of them have "some type of smart product at home." However, the Association of Energy Services Professionals reports as many as 85% of Millennials do not own any IoT devices.

The same survey found this age group is the least likely to participate in utility programs. They are also less likely to become homeowners which means they don't necessarily need IoT. Offering IoT-integration on your properties would be a positive selling point when marketing your properties.

GENERATION Z (BORN MID-90'S - EARLY 2000S) IoT for All says this generation, a.k.a. the "Selfie Generation," primarily uses IoT "for social media and staying in touch with friends." Their ability to connect at home on property is an important feature.

This generation can also teach your older residents and explain to them how all this new connectivity works.

"Gen Z are true digital natives," according to seymourpowell. "Maturing as The Internet of Things expands, they will expect the real and virtual worlds to work together in a seamless way."

DID YOU KNOW

Using real-time data to predict and prevent breakdowns can reduce downtime by 50%.

-McKinsey

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Sweet Ways to Welcome Warmer Days Two recipes to try and share!

(Family Features) Warmer, longer days are made for quality time with friends and family. There's no better way to cap off an afternoon in the sun than a good meal followed by a great dessert. Plan to end your next gathering on a sweet note with these fruity desserts to conclude a day spent with loved ones.

Fruity treats are hard to resist, especially when paired with tasty, complementary flavors and textures. If you're looking for a treat that travels a bit off the beaten path, this pie may be just the answer. A crushed pretzel crust and creamy peanut butter filling provide a salty, savory background for plump, sweet strawberries. Or serve up a taste of the tropics with a creampie that celebrates a medley of textures and flavors from lively blueberries to toasted coconut.

When you make fruit the star of the dessert, there's no question you need top-quality ingredients. Each of these desserts features Lucky Leaf Fruit Fillings, which are made from fresh fruit, contain no high-fructose corn syrup and are GMO-free, for a delicious dessert every time. With a variety of flavors to choose from, including apple, blueberry, cherry, peach and strawberry, there are plenty of convenient, versatile dessert options for any occasion.

Find more tasty treats for entertaining and beyond at luckyleaf.com.

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STRAWBERRY PEANUT BUTTER PIE 1 1/4 cups crushed pretzels 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 cup creamy peanut butter 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1 1/2 cups frozen whipped dessert topping, thawed 1 can (21 ounces) Lucky Leaf Premium Strawberry Fruit Filling and Topping

PROCEDURE Combine pretzels and granulated sugar then stir in butter. Press crumb mixture onto bottom and sides of 10-inch pie plate. Cover and chill.

FLUFFY BLUEBERRY CREAM PIE WITH TOASTED COCONUT 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup sugar

With electric mixer on medium speed, beat

1 tablespoon milk

together peanut butter, cream cheese and

2 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed

powdered sugar. Fold in whipped dessert topping.

1 can (21 ounces) Lucky Leaf Premium or

Spoon 1/2 cup pie filling into crust-lined pie plate.

Carefully spread peanut butter filling over top.

Top with remaining pie filling. Cover and chill 2 hours before serving.

Organic Blueberry Fruit Filling or Topping 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes, plus additional for topping, if desired 1 graham cracker crust (9 inches)

PROCEDURE In large bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar and milk until creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Add whipped topping, pie filling and coconut; carefully fold together until no streaks remain.

Spoon filling mixture into graham cracker crust.

Sprinkle top with additional coconut flakes, if desired. Cover and chill 2 hours, or until firm.

LET'S TALK 888.466.5572 ext. 2797 1827 FIRST AVENUE NORTH, SUITE 100 BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35203 ehall@navigatehousing.com NavigateHousingConsulting.com