The Smart Home Integrators of 2027

The User-Centric Revolution

Our whitepaper emphasises the importance of moving from product-centric thinking to human-focused design. It’s less about what products can do, and more about what users need. By adopting a user-first approach, integrators will deliver better personalised experiences.

“Integration companies must move from product centricity—what customers say they want—to human centricity—what they really need.”

Experiences won’t just be personalised. They’ll be hyper-personalised. Of course, integrators will listen to users to understand their needs. But people don’t always know what they want. Professionals will also use AI and analytics to understand what a user actually needs. They’ll then create tailored solutions.

“Hyper-personalisation seeks to hold a one-to-one conversation with each customer, across all channels.”

Using hyper-personalisation in smart homes will improve the human condition. Smart homes should enhance people’s comfort, safety, health and sustainability. It’s not about using technology for the sake of it. A user-centric approach deploys automation and smart home devices where they’ll make a difference, which varies for each user.

Emerging Opportunities in Technology

By 2027, we also expect to see new technological trends.

One trend will be Internet of Things (IoT) interoperability. People already expect Wi-Fi connectivity like air. The growth of connected devices will make this more pertinent. The smart homes of the future need to have seamless integration with simplified connections between IoT devices.

“Connectivity in and around the home must be able to support the exponentially growing number of connected devices.”

Active Assisted Living (AAL) is another growth area. Technology can support ageing populations with safety and wellness solutions for residential settings. For example, assistive technology and sensors enable remote patient monitoring.

“Active Assisted Living technologies enable people to live more independent, comfortable, and dignified lives.”

Beyond the home, we expect smart cities to become more common. Home and urban systems will blur, with people expecting smart environments to continue beyond their front door.

By knowing the smart home trends of 2027, you have a competitive advantage. The installers who adopt new technologies will be better placed to take on in-demand requests.

Rethinking Smart Home Business Models

The reduction in margins on hardware sales is a pain point for Smart Home Professionals. Unfortunately, the margins won’t improve. So, it’s necessary to change your business model.

Integrators need to monetise processes like design thinking, consultation and ongoing user experience (UX) management. Remember that you’re not just installing technology – you’re advising on bespoke designs using your expert knowledge. You need to recognise your value and charge for it. To succeed in 2027, you’ll have to shift from a product-centric model to a service-driven mindset. 

“The largest challenge is commercialising the process instead of the things.”

You’ve got to profit from the process, not just the products. Start by collaborating with your customers during the discovery phase and treat it holistically. When your clients say “I want this solution”, you have to identify the problem and install the technology that will actually help them – not what they think they need.

“Ask the right questions, listen astutely to the answers, monetise the process, and profit from change.”

Building Long-Term Success with Standards

By adapting to changing industry standards and adopting recommended practices, you’ll future-proof your business. Homeowners want to work with the installers they can trust. Changing with the times shows them you’ve got the professionalism they’re looking for.

The user-centric frameworks of the future will create better integrations and enhance customer trust. When you understand people’s needs, you become more than ‘just’ an installer – you’re a consultant.

Investing in education and professional certificates will help you stay up to date, remain competitive and enjoy long-term success.