Understanding building occupancy is difficult for companies and the vendors they rely on. People enter and leave buildings. They may move around within a space and not constantly remain in one place where they can be counted.

The information goes well beyond the need for insight into how much real estate space a company needs. Knowing where people are in any commercial real estate building, not just offices, opens the opportunity for more flexible and efficient energy management, improved security, and optimized space design

There are different techniques companies have used in trying to understand occupancy. They include sensors in seats, Internet of Things devices to measure proximity, and badge data. Each has its pros and cons. Sensors must be added and integrated into a building management scheme. Badge data often won't be precise enough.