Kimberly-Clark Professional, Roswell, Ga., USA, is harnessing the machine-to-machine connectivity of the Internet of Things to bring distribution sales professionals and their customers a smart restroom management system called Onvation Technology. The system provides up-to-the-minute monitoring of restroom conditions from any device or location, 24 hours a day. 

"Buildings today are smarter than ever with sensors and software managing everything from lighting and security to HVAC systems and more," said Terry Sanchez, marketing and sales leader, Kimberly-Clark Professional, North America. "However, the restroom, which is one of the top three areas of tenant complaints, has been largely overlooked—until now."

Onvation Technology is a patent-protected system that delivers real-time data and alerts so building managers can identify and fix restroom problems before they become complaints. It can help:

• Cut costs and expenses 
• Reduce waste and boost sustainability 
• Optimize labor 
• Enhance tenant satisfaction.

In addition to signaling whether dispensers are empty or full, Onvation Technology provides actionable data, analytics, and insights that can help building managers better manage their businesses by gaining control of the restroom. 

Onvation Technology delivers and relays information through a web-based dashboard that's accessible 24/7.

Here's how it works:

• Connected sensors are embedded into proprietary towel, tissue, soap dispensers, and door counters 
• Real-time data is sent to the cloud over a secure network 
• Automatic text messages alert building managers to product and battery levels, usage, jams, and overall traffic 
• Remote confirmation is delivered when an issue has been resolved.

The system enables building managers to reallocate resources to enhance productivity. "Instead of treating all restrooms equally, managers can assign staff to the areas that actually need service," Sanchez said. 

The system also can be used to make informed decisions about budgeting, planning, and scheduling, so building managers can be proactive rather than reactive.

"Seventy-three percent of tenants say a bad restroom signals poor management," Sanchez added. "When you consider that the typical office worker visits the restroom three to four times a day, that's more than 1.1 million annual opportunities to impress or disappoint. With Onvation Technology, building managers can make sure their restrooms measure up to the rest of their properties."

More information about Onvation Technology is available online.