Autonomous AI Write-Back in Buildings: Lessons from Real-World Deployments

This webinar brings together senior building and portfolio leaders to share candid, real-world experiences with autonomous AI write-back technologies in commercial buildings. Moderated by Hugh Amoyal, the session features perspectives from Jon Clarke, Scott Crellin, and Tom Balme—all with decades of experience managing large, high-performing property portfolios in Australia.

Rather than focusing on theory or vendor claims, the discussion reflects on how AI write-back has actually performed in live environments over the past decade. Panelists describe why these technologies were trialled, what they were expected to deliver, and the practical challenges encountered once deployed at scale.

Key themes include network reliability, integration complexity, operational risk, return on investment, and the impact of write-back on site teams and occupant comfort. While the panel acknowledges the long-term potential of AI-driven control, the consensus is clear: in mature, well-tuned buildings, autonomous write-back has often failed to deliver the savings and resilience promised.

The session offers valuable lessons for owners, operators, and sustainability teams considering AI-enabled control—highlighting why strong fundamentals in BMS, analytics, and fault detection remain essential before introducing automation.