Disintegrated Tech Design Is Costing Developers: Why We Built a Better Way

Building technology used to mean running a few wires for Wi-Fi and calling it a day. Today, it requires dozens of integrated systems—each expected to be fast, secure, and seamless from day one. From smart units and AV to fire alarms and access control, the networks that power today’s buildings are more complex and more critical than ever.

In fact, the average U.S. internet‑connected household now has around 18 connected devices—up approximately 225% from late 2010s—with data consumption averaging 656GB per household in 2024.

At Power Design, we saw a gap: while many engineers treat smart technology as an afterthought, we’ve built an entire team around doing it better from the start. Our Technology Solutions Design Division includes 65+ professionals dedicated solely to designing smarter, safer, more seamless systems that perform now and thrive well into the future.

What makes our approach different beyond specialization? We’re not just designers—we’re builders. With more than 220 years of combined industry experience from the field to the drawing board, our TSD team understands what it takes to turn a plan into a fully functioning system. That real-world expertise helps eliminate costly change orders, reduce retrofit needs, and deliver more efficient installs. As part of a national design-build organization, we collaborate early and often, providing crucial construction knowledge that gives our partners an edge.

Big tech isn’t slowing down anytime soon, and our infrastructure must keep up. We focus on future-proofing from day one by selecting scalable, front-of-the-line systems that adapt to rapidly evolving network, security, life safety, and smart living needs. And it’s not just about staying ahead of the game; it’s about creating next-gen solutions that enhance the way we communicate, connect, and live.

These integrated scopes are at the heart of our technology design approach:

• Communication & Networking
• Security
• Life Safety
• Environment Controls
• Audio/Visual
• Energy & Sustainability

What happens when our construction insight meets smart tech design? Fewer surprises during installation—and better experiences for owners, property managers, and residents. Whether it’s enabling seamless Wi-Fi coverage, integrating BDA systems, or delivering intuitive lighting and environmental controls, our team helps create buildings that work smarter, not harder.

With 130+ licenses and certifications, top-tier partnerships with brands like Cisco, Crestron, and Lutron, and more than 21 million square feet already designed—it’s safe to say we’re redefining what’s possible in technology delivery.

 Technology used to be an afterthought, and now it’s the backbone of every building. We launched TSD to not only help our partner’s systems perform better, but future-proof their investments.

Hunter Drawdy | VP of Technology Design & Operations

Ready to future-proof your next project? Learn more about how our Technology Solutions Design Division is delivering smarter systems across the country.