Q&A With Stephanie Lin, VP & General Manager of Operate Solution, Matterport

In the lead up to the 2025 Buildings Conference, we sat down with Matterport’s VP & General Manager of Operate Solution Stephanie Lin to discuss challenges and advancements in data capturing impacting building operations and facility management.

Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your role at Matterport.

I am the proud mother of two little girls and also a licensed LEED accredited architect with over 20 years of experience in global design and project management, retail innovation, and digital transformation. At Matterport, I lead the Operate Solutions business unit, focusing on how digital twins can streamline building operations, maintenance, and facility management.

My background includes designing skyscrapers at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) and driving global expansion and digital initiatives at Michael Kors and Tory Burch. This blend of architecture and technology informs our approach to enhancing the built environment.

Can you share a little bit about the evolving role of digital twins, reality capture and other visualization technologies in the built environment?

Over the last year or so, digital twins and reality capture technologies have quickly shifted from nice to have to need to have. As the labor force continues to add digital native workers, digital twins are reshaping how we manage buildings:

• Comprehensive Visualization: Digital twins provide detailed, realistic and interactive 3D representation of physical spaces, aiding in removing uncertainty throughout design, construction, and operations.
• Data Integration: Digital twins allow a clear and easy-to-understand visual base layer upon which data can be either overlaid or exported. By combining visual models with IoT sensor data, stakeholders gain real-time insights into building performance. Similarly, accurate 3D data can be isolated and exported out into industry leading software such as Autodesk Construction Cloud, Procore, AWS Twinmaker, and Maximo to name a few.
• Remote Collaboration: Because digital twins are often hosted on cloud based solutions, teams can access and interact with building data from anywhere, facilitating decision-making and reducing the need for on-site visits.

These technologies are becoming essential tools for enhancing efficiency and sustainability in the built environment.

It seems a lot easier to collect data these days. Is that true?

Data collection has definitely become more accessible due to advancements in technology:

• Advanced and affordable LiDAR technology: LiDAR scanners are now more compact and cost effective, allowing teams to quickly capture precise data across large and complex environments.
• Improved Connectivity: Enhanced wireless networks allow for seamless data transmission from sensors to management systems.
• User-Friendly Platforms: Modern software solutions enable easy sharing, integration, and visualization of collected data.
• Affordable Sensors: The cost of IoT devices has decreased, making it feasible to deploy them widely across facilities.

These developments empower everyone from home owners to facility managers to make informed decisions based on relevant and current information.

How is that data being integrated to better improve the management and operations of buildings specifically?

Integrated data enhances building management in several ways:

• Predictive Maintenance: Analyzing sensor data helps anticipate equipment failures, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
• Energy Optimization: Monitoring energy usage patterns allows for adjustments that improve efficiency and lower utility expenses.
• Space Utilization: Understanding occupancy trends aids in optimizing space allocation and improving occupant comfort.
• Occupant Safety: Referencing real time data related to occupancy, foot traffic/congestion, and building systems, enables the required rapid response to thwart and resolve human safety risks.

By leveraging integrated data, facility managers can proactively address issues and optimize operations.

For contractors and building operators that may not yet use digital twin technologies but are considering them, what are some absolute must knows before investing in the technology?

Before adopting digital twin technologies, consider the following:

• Define Objectives: Clearly outline what you aim to achieve, such as improved documentation, expedited maintenance, energy savings, or enhanced occupant experience.
• Assess Compatibility: Evaluate how the technology will integrate with existing software systems and processes.
• Plan for Onboarding: Allocate time and additional resources if necessary for training staff to effectively use and manage the new tools.
• Map Out Data Management Workflows: Establish protocols for data collection, storage, and analysis to ensure meaningful insights.

Understanding these factors will help in making informed investment decisions.

Are there any implementation/integration hurdles that they should expect/plan for?

Yes, potential challenges include:

• Legacy Systems: Integrating new technologies with outdated infrastructure can be complex and may require additional investment.
• Data Silos: Ensuring seamless data flow between different systems is crucial to avoid fragmented information.
• Change Management: Staff may need time and support to adapt to new workflows and tools.
• Cybersecurity: Implementing robust security measures is essential to protect sensitive building data.

Anticipating these hurdles and planning accordingly can facilitate a smoother implementation process.

With the construction industry embracing the power of data and smart tech in buildings, what are the cybersecurity concerns operators should be aware of, and how can they avoid them?

Cybersecurity is a critical concern with the integration of smart technologies:

• Potential Risks: Unauthorized access to building systems can lead to operational disruptions and data breaches
• Preventive Measures:
  • Regular Updates: Keep your enterprise-grade systems and devices updated with the latest security patches.
  • Access Controls: Implement strict user authentication protocols, including 2FA, if available.
  • Network Security: Use firewalls and intrusion detection systems to safeguard networks.
  • Employee Training: Educate staff on cybersecurity best practices.

By proactively addressing these concerns, operators can protect their facilities from potential threats.

Where do you see the development of facilities management technologies going over the next five years? What do you anticipate will be the big value gains over that time?

We are just scratching the surface of how facilities maintenance technologies can aid owners and operators in running their businesses and facilities. Over the next five years, we will see significant advancement in:

• Increased Automation: AI-driven systems will automate routine tasks, enhancing efficiency.
• Enhanced Predictive Analytics: Advanced analytics will provide deeper insights into building performance and maintenance needs.
• Sustainability Focus: Technologies will support initiatives aimed at reducing carbon footprints and promoting energy efficiency.
• Integrated Platforms: Unified systems will enable seamless management of various building functions from a single interface.

These advancements will lead to cost savings, improved occupant satisfaction, and more sustainable building operations.