As buildings become more complex, smarter, interconnected, and self-reporting, can technologies be used to the advantage of the end-user and society? This study looks to determine if implementing big data can improve sustainability and increase efficiency in facilities management. Big data, the internet of things (IoT), their application in the construction industry, connection to sustainability, and impact on facilities management are researched. The research employs a mixed-methods approach with critical literature review, primary qualitative research by interviews, and quantitative data research by questionnaire with assessment through mind mapping and SPSS statistical analysis. Key findings identify an industry concept of big data, the IoT, BIM as a primary data contributor on AEC projects, with technology being most assistive to inception and design phases and improving decision making. Implications for industry arise from unrelated usage and misunderstanding of terminology. The study identifies space for further research into the topic.

The calculations of life cycle costs (LCC) and whole life costs (WLC) are important tools in the life cycle of a project. The aim of this research is to examine life cycle costing, whole life costing, and the possible advantages and disadvantages to their introduction and use. A qualitative methodology encompassing an in-depth literature review, interviews, and qualitative analysis using mind mapping software, this research is important as it can add to the industry's understanding of the design process. It highlights reasons for the success or failure of a construction project, in terms of sustainability at the design stage. Results indicate that the researched topics had many advantages but also had inherent disadvantages. It is found that the potential advantages outweighed disadvantages, but uptake within industry is still slow and that better promotion and their benefits to sustainability, the environment, society, and the industry are required.