Solved Case Study: Smart Home

Energy Management System

Diwakar Singh
Case Study Description:

A home automation company, EcoSmart, plans to develop a Smart

Home Energy Management System (SHEMS). The system will
allow homeowners to monitor and optimize their energy
consumption through IoT-enabled devices. The goal is to reduce
energy costs and promote sustainable living.

As a Business Analyst, you are brought in during the initial phase to

help stakeholders understand the scope of the project and define
system requirements. Your task is to facilitate discussions, identify
gaps, and ensure alignment between business objectives and
technical implementation.
Smart Home Energy Management System (SHEMS) Case Study:
Business Analyst's Role

Objective

To assist EcoSmart in defining the scope and requirements for the

SHEMS, ensuring alignment between business goals (sustainability
and cost reduction) and technical feasibility.

1. Business Objectives

• Reduce energy consumption and costs for homeowners.

• Enable real-time monitoring and optimization of energy usage
through IoT-enabled devices.
• Promote sustainable living by integrating renewable energy
sources.
• Enhance customer convenience and satisfaction.

2. Stakeholders

• Internal:
o Project Sponsor (EcoSmart Executive Team)
o Product Manager
o IoT Device Development Team
o Software Development Team
o Marketing and Sales Team
• External:
 o Homeowners (End Users)
o Energy Providers
o Installation Technicians
o Regulatory Authorities (Compliance with energy
efficiency standards)

3. Role-Play Preparation

As a Business Analyst, prepare for stakeholder engagement by:

• Conducting stakeholder analysis to identify their needs and

expectations.
• Setting up workshops or interviews to gather requirements.
• Using techniques like brainstorming, SWOT analysis, and
customer journey mapping.

4. Key Activities and Deliverables

Phase 1: Understanding Project Scope

Actions:

• Facilitate workshops to define the SHEMS' scope and high-

level objectives.
• Identify in-scope and out-of-scope functionalities.
• Develop a Project Charter summarizing objectives,
stakeholders, and constraints.

Deliverables:
 • Project Charter Document
• High-Level Scope Statement

Phase 2: Requirements Gathering

Actions:

• Conduct interviews with internal and external stakeholders to

understand their expectations.
• Create Personas for different user groups (e.g., tech-savvy vs.
non-tech-savvy homeowners).
• Develop User Stories and Use Cases:
o Example User Story: "As a homeowner, I want to receive
real-time alerts about high energy usage so I can take
action to reduce costs."
• Prioritize requirements using the MoSCoW technique (Must
Have, Should Have, Could Have, Won't Have).

Deliverables:

• Detailed User Stories

• Use Case Diagrams
• Prioritized Requirements List

Phase 3: Gap Analysis

Actions:
 • Compare current home energy systems with the envisioned
SHEMS to identify functional gaps.
• Perform a SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses,
Opportunities, Threats) to assess risks and challenges.

Deliverables:

• Gap Analysis Document

• SWOT Analysis Report

Phase 4: Alignment Between Business and Technical Teams

Actions:

• Translate business needs into technical specifications.

• Collaborate with the IoT and Software Development teams to
evaluate the feasibility of requirements.
• Define Non-Functional Requirements (e.g., system uptime,
data security, response times).

Deliverables:

• Business Requirements Document (BRD)

• Functional and Non-Functional Requirements Specifications
(FRS, NFRS)

Phase 5: Prototyping and Feedback

Actions:
 • Work with UX/UI designers to create wireframes and
prototypes of the SHEMS interface.
• Facilitate user feedback sessions to validate design and
functionality.

Deliverables:

• Wireframes and Prototypes

• Feedback Summary Report

5. Key Challenges

• Ensuring data security and privacy for homeowners.

• Achieving compatibility between various IoT devices.
• Managing regulatory compliance for energy standards.
• Aligning technical capabilities with cost constraints.

6. Tools and Techniques

• Elicitation Techniques: Workshops, Interviews, Focus Groups

• Modeling Tools: Use Case Diagrams, Wireframes
• Documentation: BRD, FRS, Gap Analysis Reports
• Requirement Prioritization: MoSCoW, Kano Model
• Communication Tools: JIRA, Confluence, Slack
7. Success Metrics

• % Reduction in average household energy consumption post-

implementation.
• Increase in customer satisfaction scores.
• Adoption rate of SHEMS among EcoSmart customers.
Gap Analysis for Smart Home Energy Management System
(SHEMS)

1. Purpose of Gap Analysis

To identify the differences between the current state (AS-IS) of

home energy systems and the desired future state (TO-BE) with the
implementation of the Smart Home Energy Management System
(SHEMS). This analysis will help in understanding the gaps that need
to be addressed during development.

2. Current State (AS-IS)

Feature/Cap
Current Scenario
ability
Manual or semi-automated systems, such as
Energy
basic energy meters or utility-provided monthly
Monitoring
usage reports.
Device Limited or no connectivity between appliances
Connectivity and energy monitoring systems.
Energy No centralized optimization system; users rely on
Optimization individual habits or schedules.
User Limited or outdated interfaces; often non-intuitive
Interface and difficult to navigate.
Renewable
Minimal integration; typically separate systems for
Energy
solar or wind energy with no unified monitoring.
Integration
Data Basic consumption statistics; no predictive
Analytics insights or recommendations for energy savings.
Alerts and Lacking or delayed notifications about energy
Notifications spikes or unusual consumption patterns.
Regulatory Partial compliance with energy efficiency
Compliance standards; no proactive regulatory updates.

3. Desired Future State (TO-BE)

Feature/Cap
Future Requirement
ability
Energy Real-time monitoring of energy consumption for
Monitoring the entire household and individual devices.
IoT-enabled connectivity to allow seamless
Device
integration and communication between all
Connectivity
devices.
Energy Automated optimization using machine learning
Optimization algorithms to minimize energy waste.
User Modern, user-friendly interface accessible via
Interface mobile app and web portal.
Renewable Unified platform to monitor, manage, and
Energy optimize renewable energy sources alongside
Integration traditional utilities.
 Advanced analytics providing actionable insights,
Data
predictive consumption trends, and
Analytics
recommendations.
Alerts and Instant alerts for unusual usage patterns, high
Notifications energy costs, or system issues.
Regulatory Proactive updates to comply with emerging energy
Compliance standards and regulations.

4. Identified Gaps

Feature/
Capabili Gap Description Impact
ty
Limited visibility into
Energy
Lack of real-time consumption trends;
Monitori
monitoring. homeowners unable to make
ng
timely adjustments.
Current systems lack
Device Inability to create a unified
IoT-enabled
Connect and efficient energy
communication
ivity management ecosystem.
between devices.
Energy No centralized or Increased energy costs due to
Optimiz automated energy inefficiency and manual
ation optimization. intervention.
User Poor user adoption and
Outdated or non-
Interfac satisfaction; increased
intuitive interfaces.
e training requirements.
Renewa
Separate systems for
ble Inefficiencies in energy use
managing renewable
Energy and reduced incentives for
and traditional energy
Integrati renewable energy adoption.
sources.
on
Data Basic statistics Missed opportunities for cost
Analytic instead of predictive or savings and energy
s actionable insights. optimization.
Alerts
No real-time alerts or Homeowners remain unaware
and
actionable of issues or inefficiencies until
Notificat
notifications. too late.
ions
Regulato Risk of non-compliance
Partial compliance
ry penalties and inability to meet
and lack of proactive
Complia customer expectations for
updates.
nce sustainability.

5. Recommendations

Pr
io
Gap Recommendation
rit
y
Energy Implement real-time energy monitoring using Hi
Monitoring IoT-enabled devices. gh
 Use IoT protocols (e.g., Zigbee, Z-Wave, or
Device Hi
MQTT) to enable seamless device
Connectivity gh
communication.
Energy Develop ML algorithms for predictive Hi
Optimization optimization and auto-scheduling. gh
M
User Design a modern, intuitive UI/UX for mobile ed
Interface and web platforms. iu
m
M
Renewable
Integrate renewable energy management ed
Energy
features into a unified platform. iu
Integration
m
M
Implement advanced analytics with
Data ed
dashboards showing actionable insights and
Analytics iu
trends.
m
Alerts and Enable real-time alerts for energy spikes, Hi
Notifications system failures, or unusual patterns. gh
M
Regulatory Continuously monitor and update system ed
Compliance features to meet evolving energy standards. iu
m
6. Gap Analysis Report Summary

Key Findings:

• Significant gaps in real-time monitoring, device connectivity,

and energy optimization.
• Lack of actionable data analytics and intuitive user interfaces.
• Need for better integration of renewable energy and adherence
to regulatory standards.

Impact:

Addressing these gaps is critical for achieving project objectives,

ensuring user adoption, and promoting sustainable energy
management.

Next Steps:

• Prioritize high-impact gaps for immediate action.

• Collaborate with technical teams to design and implement
recommended solutions.
• Schedule periodic reviews to track progress and address
emerging gaps.
Project Charter: Smart Home Energy Management System
(SHEMS)

Project Title

Smart Home Energy Management System (SHEMS)

Project Sponsor

EcoSmart Executive Team

Project Manager

Alfred

Business Analyst

Diwakar Singh

1. Project Objectives

1. Primary Objective:

2. Develop a Smart Home Energy Management System (SHEMS)

that allows homeowners to monitor and optimize their energy
consumption in real time, reducing energy costs and
promoting sustainable living.
 3. Secondary Objectives:
a. Integrate IoT-enabled devices to enable seamless
connectivity between household appliances.
b. Provide actionable insights and predictive analytics to
help users optimize energy usage.
c. Enhance the user experience through a modern, intuitive
mobile and web interface.
d. Ensure compliance with energy efficiency standards and
regulations.
e. Support renewable energy integration for hybrid energy
management.

2. Project Scope

In-Scope:

• Development of IoT-enabled energy monitoring capabilities.

• Creation of user-friendly interfaces for mobile and web
platforms.
• Integration with renewable energy sources (e.g., solar, wind)
and traditional energy grids.
• Implementation of real-time alerts, notifications, and
predictive analytics for energy management.
• Compliance with regulatory requirements for energy
efficiency.
Out-of-Scope:

• Hardware development for IoT devices (third-party devices to

be used).
• Installation services for IoT-enabled devices in customers'
homes.
• Marketing and promotional campaigns.

3. Stakeholders

Internal Stakeholders:

• Project Sponsor: EcoSmart Executive Team

• Product Manager: Oversees feature prioritization and product
delivery.
• IoT Development Team: Responsible for hardware-software
integration.
• Software Development Team: Designs and implements the
SHEMS platform.
• Marketing and Sales Team: Defines market positioning and
target audience.

External Stakeholders:

• Homeowners (End Users): Key beneficiaries and users of the

SHEMS.
• Energy Providers: Collaborate for seamless data exchange
and renewable energy integration.
 • Installation Technicians: Provide feedback on system
compatibility with various devices.
• Regulatory Authorities: Ensure compliance with energy
standards and certifications.

4. Constraints

1. Budget Constraints:

Limited budget allocation for development and integration;

emphasis on cost-effective solutions.

2. Time Constraints:

Project completion is required within 12 months to align with

product launch timelines.

3. Technical Constraints:
a. Compatibility with existing IoT standards and protocols.
b. Data security and privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR
compliance).
4. Resource Constraints:

Limited availability of in-house IoT and data analytics experts;

potential need for external consultants.
5. Key Deliverables

• Phase 1: High-Level Requirements Document and Project

Charter
• Phase 2: Functional and Non-Functional Requirements
Specifications
• Phase 3: System Design and Architecture Documentation
• Phase 4: Developed and Tested SHEMS Platform
• Phase 5: User Training Materials and Go-Live Support

6. Risks and Assumptions

Risks:

• Delays in IoT device compatibility testing.

• Regulatory changes during project execution.
• Low user adoption due to interface or functionality issues.

Assumptions:

• Necessary IoT devices and APIs are available for integration.

• Adequate technical expertise is accessible for development.
• Stakeholders provide timely feedback during requirement-
gathering and testing phases.
7. Approval

This Project Charter is approved by the EcoSmart Executive Team as

the guiding document for the development of the SHEMS.

Nam Signatu
Role Date
e re
Project
Sponsor
Project Alfre
Manager d
Diwa
Business
kar
Analyst
Singh
Personas for Smart Home Energy Management System (SHEMS)

Persona 1: Tech-Savvy Homeowner

Name: Alex Johnson

Age: 35

Occupation: Software Engineer

Location: Urban Apartment, San Francisco, CA

Tech Proficiency: High

Background:

• Alex is a software engineer who loves exploring the latest

technologies and gadgets.
• Owns a fully connected smart home ecosystem, including
smart speakers, thermostats, lights, and security systems.
• Actively tracks energy usage through current smart devices but
finds the process fragmented.

Goals:

• Centralized control of all energy-monitoring and IoT devices.

• Access to detailed insights and predictive analytics to optimize
energy consumption.
 • Integration with renewable energy sources, like solar panels,
to maximize efficiency.

Pain Points:

• Current systems lack centralized management and require

multiple apps.
• Limited actionable insights and analytics.
• Wants advanced customization options but finds existing tools
overly basic.

Expectations from SHEMS:

• Seamless integration with existing IoT devices.

• Highly customizable settings with advanced features like
energy usage forecasting.
• A visually appealing, intuitive app with detailed analytics
dashboards.
Persona 2: Non-Tech-Savvy Homeowner

Name: Susan Martinez

Age: 52

Occupation: Teacher

Location: Suburban House, Austin, TX

Tech Proficiency: Low

Background:

• Susan teaches middle school and focuses on creating a

comfortable home environment.
• Uses basic home appliances but avoids complex technology
due to limited confidence with gadgets.
• Concerned about rising energy bills and wants to reduce
costs.

Goals:

• Reduce energy costs without needing extensive technical

know-how.
• Easy-to-use system with minimal setup and maintenance.
• Get alerts about high energy consumption and tips to save
energy.
Pain Points:

• Finds smart devices confusing and difficult to operate.

• Does not understand technical terms or energy analytics.
• Prefers simple, guided instructions over complex
customization options.

Expectations from SHEMS:

• Straightforward setup with clear step-by-step guidance.

• Simple interface focusing on essential features like cost
savings and alerts.
• Customer support availability to assist with troubleshooting.

Persona 3: Environmentally Conscious Homeowner

Name: Priya Sharma

Age: 40

Occupation: Environmental Scientist

Location: Eco-Friendly Home, Portland, OR

Tech Proficiency: Moderate

Background:

• Priya is deeply committed to sustainability and prefers energy-

efficient appliances.
 • Lives in a home powered by solar panels and other renewable
energy sources.
• Open to using technology but prefers systems that prioritize
environmental impact over technical complexity.

Goals:

• Maximize the use of renewable energy and reduce dependency

on non-renewable resources.
• Receive insights on carbon footprint reduction through energy-
efficient practices.
• Contribute to environmental conservation while maintaining a
comfortable lifestyle.

Pain Points:

• Existing systems provide limited options to track renewable

energy performance.
• Lack of features that correlate energy use with environmental
impact.
• Difficulty balancing renewable and traditional energy sources
during peak usage.

Expectations from SHEMS:

• Tools to monitor and optimize renewable energy use.

• Insights on how energy consumption impacts environmental
sustainability.
 • Simple, eco-friendly recommendations for further energy
savings.

Persona 4: Budget-Conscious Renter

Name: Jake Thompson

Age: 28

Occupation: Freelance Graphic Designer

Location: Rental Apartment, Chicago, IL

Tech Proficiency: Moderate

Background:

• Jake is a freelance designer with fluctuating income, making

budget management critical.
• Lives in a rented apartment, limiting options for permanent
home automation installations.
• Uses a few smart devices like a thermostat and smart plugs
but avoids high-end solutions.

Goals:

• Minimize energy bills without investing in expensive hardware

or installations.
• Get actionable tips to reduce energy usage during peak hours.
 • Easy-to-use solutions that don't require landlord approval for
installation.

Pain Points:

• Limited access to advanced energy-saving technologies due to

renting constraints.
• Finds many energy management solutions too expensive or
unnecessary.
• Wants actionable, cost-effective recommendations.

Expectations from SHEMS:

• Affordable solution with minimal hardware requirements.

• Insights focused on energy cost savings rather than advanced
features.
• Compatibility with existing smart devices and simple plug-and-
play options.

Persona Summary Table

Tech
Primary Pain
Persona Profici Primary Goal
Point
ency
Centralized control
Alex (Tech- Fragmented
High and advanced
Savvy) systems
analytics
Susan Easy-to-use system
Confusion with
(Non-Tech- Low to reduce energy
complex systems
Savvy) costs
Priya (Eco- Modera Optimize renewable Limited tracking of
Conscious) te energy use renewable sources
Jake
Modera Affordable energy- Cost and hardware
(Budget-
te saving solution constraints
Conscious)
Use Cases for Smart Home Energy Management System
(SHEMS)

Use Case 1: Monitor Energy Consumption in Real-Time

Use Case ID: UC-001

Use Case Name: Monitor Energy Consumption in Real-Time

Actors:

• Primary: Homeowner
• Secondary: SHEMS System

Description:

The homeowner uses the SHEMS to monitor real-time energy

consumption for the entire home and individual devices.

Preconditions:

• IoT-enabled devices are connected to the SHEMS.

• SHEMS is installed and configured.

Main Flow:

1. The homeowner logs into the SHEMS mobile or web

application.
2. The system displays a dashboard with real-time energy
consumption data.
 3. The homeowner selects a specific device to view detailed
consumption statistics.
4. The system updates the dashboard in real-time based on
device usage.

Alternate Flow: 4a. If the device is offline, the system displays a

notification indicating no data is available.

Postconditions:

• The homeowner has visibility into real-time energy

consumption.

Use Case 2: Receive Alerts for High Energy Consumption

Use Case ID: UC-002

Use Case Name: Receive Alerts for High Energy Consumption

Actors:

• Primary: Homeowner
• Secondary: SHEMS System

Description:

The system sends alerts to the homeowner when energy usage

exceeds a predefined threshold.

Preconditions:

• The homeowner has configured alert thresholds in the SHEMS.

 • The system is actively monitoring energy consumption.

Main Flow:

1. The system continuously monitors energy usage.

2. The system detects that energy consumption has exceeded
the threshold.
3. The system sends an alert notification to the homeowner via
the mobile app and/or email.

Postconditions:

• The homeowner receives the alert and takes action to reduce

energy usage.

Use Case 3: Optimize Energy Usage with Scheduling

Use Case ID: UC-003

Use Case Name: Optimize Energy Usage with Scheduling

Actors:

• Primary: Homeowner
• Secondary: SHEMS System

Description:

The homeowner schedules specific times for appliances to operate

to optimize energy usage and reduce costs.

Preconditions:
 • Appliances are connected to the SHEMS.
• Scheduling functionality is enabled.

Main Flow:

1. The homeowner accesses the scheduling feature through the

SHEMS app.
2. The homeowner selects an appliance and sets a start and end
time for operation.
3. The system stores the schedule and ensures the appliance
operates only within the specified time frame.

Postconditions:

• The system reduces energy usage during peak hours by

adhering to the schedule.

Use Case 4: Monitor Renewable Energy Contribution

Use Case ID: UC-004

Use Case Name: Monitor Renewable Energy Contribution

Actors:

• Primary: Homeowner
• Secondary: SHEMS System

Description:

The system displays the contribution of renewable energy sources

to the homeowner's total energy consumption.
Preconditions:

• Renewable energy sources (e.g., solar panels) are integrated

with the SHEMS.

Main Flow:

1. The homeowner logs into the SHEMS application.

2. The system displays a dashboard showing the percentage of
energy supplied by renewable sources.
3. The homeowner views historical trends and insights related to
renewable energy usage.

Postconditions:

• The homeowner gains insights into their renewable energy

contribution and impact on sustainability.

Use Case 5: Generate Energy Consumption Reports

Use Case ID: UC-005

Use Case Name: Generate Energy Consumption Reports

Actors:

• Primary: Homeowner
• Secondary: SHEMS System

Description:
The homeowner generates reports to analyze energy consumption
trends and identify potential savings.

Preconditions:

• Energy consumption data is logged by the SHEMS.

Main Flow:

1. The homeowner selects the "Generate Report" option in the

SHEMS application.
2. The system prompts the homeowner to select a time range for
the report.
3. The system generates a detailed report showing energy usage
trends, costs, and savings opportunities.
4. The homeowner downloads or emails the report for further
analysis.

Postconditions:

• The homeowner has access to a detailed report for informed

decision-making.

Use Case 6: Manage User Access

Use Case ID: UC-006

Use Case Name: Manage User Access

Actors:

• Primary: Homeowner (Admin User)

 • Secondary: Family Members (Secondary Users), SHEMS
System

Description:

The homeowner manages user access for family members, granting

or restricting control over specific features.

Preconditions:

• The admin user is logged into the SHEMS system.

Main Flow:

1. The admin user navigates to the "User Management" section in

the SHEMS application.
2. The admin user adds a family member as a secondary user.
3. The system allows the admin to specify permissions for the
secondary user (e.g., view-only access).
4. The secondary user receives an invitation to set up their
access.

Postconditions:

• Secondary users have customized access to the SHEMS

features.
Summary of Use Cases

Use Primar
Case Use Case Name y Goal
ID Actor
Monitor Energy
UC- Home View real-time energy
Consumption in Real-
001 owner data.
Time
UC- Receive Alerts for High Home Get notifications to take
002 Energy Usage owner corrective action.
UC- Optimize Energy Usage Home Reduce energy costs via
003 with Scheduling owner appliance scheduling.
UC- Monitor Renewable Home Track renewable energy
004 Energy Contribution owner usage.
UC- Generate Energy Home Analyze and plan energy-
005 Consumption Reports owner saving strategies.
UC- Home Grant/restrict access to
Manage User Access
006 owner family members.

User Stories for Smart Home Energy Management System

(SHEMS)

Epic 1: Energy Monitoring

• User Story 1.1:

 • As a homeowner, I want to see real-time energy consumption
for my entire house so that I can monitor my usage and make
adjustments as needed.

• User Story 1.2:

As a homeowner, I want to view energy consumption by individual

devices so that I can identify which appliances are using the most
energy.

• User Story 1.3:

As a homeowner, I want to receive a summary of my daily, weekly,

and monthly energy consumption so that I can track my usage
trends over time.

Epic 2: Alerts and Notifications

• User Story 2.1:

As a homeowner, I want to receive alerts when my energy

consumption exceeds a predefined threshold so that I can take
action to reduce costs.

• User Story 2.2:

As a homeowner, I want to get notifications when a device is using

energy during non-peak times so that I can optimize my usage.

• User Story 2.3:

As a homeowner, I want to receive maintenance alerts for my
appliances so that I can ensure they are operating efficiently.

Epic 3: Energy Optimization

• User Story 3.1:

As a homeowner, I want to create schedules for my appliances to

operate at specific times so that I can optimize energy usage during
non-peak hours.

• User Story 3.2:

As a homeowner, I want the system to automatically suggest

energy-saving schedules based on my usage patterns so that I don’t
have to configure them manually.

• User Story 3.3:

As a homeowner, I want to receive recommendations for upgrading

to energy-efficient appliances so that I can further reduce my energy
consumption.

Epic 4: Renewable Energy Integration

• User Story 4.1:

As a homeowner, I want to monitor how much energy my solar
panels are generating so that I can track their contribution to my
total energy usage.

• User Story 4.2:

As a homeowner, I want the system to prioritize renewable energy

sources when available so that I can reduce my reliance on non-
renewable energy.

• User Story 4.3:

As a homeowner, I want to see the environmental impact of my

renewable energy usage so that I can understand my contribution to
sustainability.

Epic 5: Reporting and Analytics

• User Story 5.1:

As a homeowner, I want to generate energy consumption reports for

specific time periods so that I can analyze my usage trends.

• User Story 5.2:

As a homeowner, I want to receive insights and forecasts about

future energy consumption so that I can plan my usage accordingly.

• User Story 5.3:

As a homeowner, I want to compare my energy consumption with
similar households so that I can understand how efficient my usage
is.

Epic 6: User Management

• User Story 6.1:

As a homeowner, I want to add family members as secondary users

so that they can access and use the system features.

• User Story 6.2:

As a homeowner, I want to set permissions for secondary users so

that I can control what features they can access.

• User Story 6.3:

As a homeowner, I want to remove secondary users from the system

so that I can revoke access when needed.

Epic 7: System Setup

• User Story 7.1:

As a homeowner, I want an easy step-by-step setup guide so that I

can configure the system quickly and without hassle.

• User Story 7.2:

As a homeowner, I want the system to automatically detect and
connect to IoT-enabled devices so that I don’t have to configure
them manually.

• User Story 7.3:

As a homeowner, I want to test the system after setup so that I can

ensure everything is working correctly.

Epic 8: Data Privacy and Security

• User Story 8.1:

As a homeowner, I want my energy consumption data to be

encrypted so that it is secure and private.

• User Story 8.2:

As a homeowner, I want to control who has access to my energy

data so that I can ensure my privacy.

• User Story 8.3:

As a homeowner, I want the system to notify me of any unusual login

attempts so that I can secure my account.
Prioritization of Requirements for SHEMS Using MoSCoW
Technique

Must Have (M)

These are critical requirements that must be implemented for the

system to be functional and deliver its core value.

1. Real-Time Energy Monitoring

a. View overall household energy consumption in real-time.
b. Monitor energy consumption of individual devices.
2. Alerts and Notifications
a. Alert homeowners when energy consumption exceeds a
threshold.
b. Notify about unusual patterns in energy usage.
3. Energy Optimization
a. Allow users to create and manage appliance schedules.
b. Automate energy-saving suggestions based on usage
patterns.
4. Basic Reporting
a. Generate energy consumption reports for daily, weekly,
and monthly periods.
5. Renewable Energy Monitoring
a. Display contribution of renewable energy sources.
b. Prioritize renewable energy usage when available.
6. Data Security
a. Ensure data encryption for user privacy.
b. Notify users of unusual login attempts.
Should Have (S)

These requirements are important but not essential for the initial
release. They can be implemented in future iterations.

1. Advanced Analytics
a. Provide predictive analytics for future energy
consumption trends.
b. Offer insights into potential cost savings based on usage.
2. Enhanced Alerts
a. Notify users about maintenance needs for connected
appliances.
3. User Management
a. Allow the primary user to add secondary users with
controlled access.
b. Provide options to revoke access or edit permissions.
4. Comparative Reporting
a. Enable users to compare their energy consumption with
similar households.
5. Environmental Impact Tracking
a. Show metrics on carbon footprint reduction through
energy-saving practices.

Could Have (C)

These are desirable features that could enhance user experience

but are not critical for the system's functionality.
 1. Customizable Dashboards
a. Allow users to personalize their SHEMS dashboard to
display preferred metrics.
2. Gamification
a. Introduce features like energy-saving badges or rewards
to encourage sustainable practices.
3. Third-Party Integrations
a. Integrate with smart home ecosystems like Alexa, Google
Home, or Apple HomeKit.
4. Voice Control
a. Allow users to control energy monitoring and appliance
schedules using voice commands.

Won't Have (W)

These features are out of scope for the current project and will not
be implemented.

1. Custom IoT Hardware Development

a. SHEMS will rely on third-party IoT devices and not
develop proprietary hardware.
2. On-Site Installation Services
a. The company will not provide in-person installation
support; users will rely on self-service or external
technicians.
3. Dedicated Marketing Features
a. Features for promotional campaigns or upselling
products are excluded.
 4. Extensive Multi-Language Support
a. Only primary market languages will be supported in the
initial release.

Summary Table

Requirement Priority
Real-Time Energy Must
Monitoring Have
Must
Alerts and Notifications
Have
Must
Energy Optimization
Have
Must
Basic Reporting
Have
Renewable Energy Must
Monitoring Have
Must
Data Security
Have
Should
Advanced Analytics
Have
Should
Enhanced Alerts
Have
Should
User Management
Have
Should
Comparative Reporting
Have
Environmental Impact Should
Tracking Have
Customizable Could
Dashboards Have
Could
Gamification
Have
Could
Third-Party Integrations
Have
Could
Voice Control
Have
Custom IoT Hardware Won't
Development Have
On-Site Installation Won't
Services Have
Dedicated Marketing Won't
Features Have
Extensive Multi-Language Won't
Support Have
SWOT Analysis for Smart Home Energy Management System
(SHEMS)

Strengths (Internal Factors)

1. Innovative Product Offering:

a. A system that integrates IoT, real-time monitoring, and
energy optimization, addressing growing consumer
demand for smart home solutions.
2. Sustainability Focus:
a. Aligns with increasing consumer awareness of
environmental issues and promotes renewable energy
integration.
3. Data-Driven Insights:
a. Provides actionable analytics and real-time alerts,
enabling users to make informed energy decisions.
4. User-Centric Design:
a. Designed to cater to diverse personas (e.g., tech-savvy,
non-tech-savvy), ensuring a wide user base.
5. Regulatory Compliance:
a. Built with adherence to energy efficiency standards,
reducing risks of non-compliance.

Weaknesses (Internal Factors)

1. Reliance on Third-Party IoT Devices:

 a. Dependence on external hardware may limit control over
compatibility and performance.
2. Initial Development Costs:
a. High upfront costs for IoT integration, analytics features,
and data security measures.
3. Complexity of Setup:
a. Some users may find the initial configuration and
integration of IoT devices challenging.
4. Limited Technical Resources:
a. Potential lack of in-house expertise in advanced IoT
technologies and predictive analytics.
5. Scalability Concerns:
a. Initial system architecture may require significant rework
to support large-scale adoption.

Opportunities (External Factors)

1. Growing Demand for Smart Home Solutions:

a. Increasing adoption of IoT devices creates a ready market
for integrated energy management systems.
2. Partnerships with Energy Providers:
a. Collaborations with utility companies can open new
revenue streams and enhance system functionality.
3. Expansion into Renewable Energy Markets:
a. Opportunity to cater to eco-conscious users by
emphasizing renewable energy integration and
environmental impact tracking.
4. Regulatory Incentives:
 a. Governments offering subsidies or incentives for energy-
efficient products can boost adoption rates.
5. Advancements in Technology:
a. Emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and 5G
can enhance system capabilities and reduce latency.
6. International Markets:
a. Potential to expand globally, targeting regions with high
energy costs and sustainability goals.

Threats (External Factors)

1. Market Competition:
a. Intense competition from established players in the
smart home and IoT space could impact market share.
2. Cybersecurity Risks:
a. IoT devices are vulnerable to hacking, which could lead to
privacy breaches and reputational damage.
3. Consumer Resistance:
a. Non-tech-savvy users may hesitate to adopt due to
perceived complexity or cost.
4. Regulatory Changes:
a. Evolving energy efficiency standards and compliance
requirements could increase development costs.
5. Economic Factors:
a. Economic downturns or high inflation rates could reduce
consumer spending on smart home solutions.
6. Reliability of Third-Party Devices:
 a. Issues with third-party IoT devices could impact the
overall performance and user experience of the SHEMS.

Risk Assessment Based on SWOT

High-Priority Risks:

• Cybersecurity Risks: Implement advanced data encryption

and proactive monitoring to mitigate hacking threats.
• Consumer Resistance: Develop an easy-to-use interface and
provide clear, guided setup instructions to improve user
adoption.
• Market Competition: Differentiate the product through unique
features like renewable energy prioritization and predictive
analytics.

Medium-Priority Risks:

• Reliance on Third-Party Devices: Conduct rigorous testing

and collaborate with reliable IoT device manufacturers to
ensure compatibility.
• Regulatory Changes: Monitor regulatory trends and maintain
flexibility in the system design to adapt quickly.

Opportunities to Leverage:

• Partner with energy providers to offer integrated solutions.

• Focus marketing efforts on eco-conscious users and regions
with high energy costs.
Translating Business Needs into Technical Specifications for
SHEMS

1. Real-Time Energy Monitoring

Business Need:

Homeowners want to monitor their energy consumption in real time

for the entire house and individual devices.

Technical Specifications:

1. IoT Device Integration:

a. Use protocols like MQTT, Zigbee, or Z-Wave for real-time
communication with connected devices.
b. Ensure compatibility with existing smart home devices
and energy meters.
2. Data Collection:
a. Implement a data collection module to aggregate energy
usage data from IoT devices at regular intervals (e.g.,
every 5 seconds).
3. Database Requirements:
a. Store real-time and historical energy data in a time-series
database (e.g., InfluxDB or TimescaleDB) for efficient
querying and visualization.
4. Dashboard Design:
 a. Develop a real-time dashboard with charts and graphs
using front-end frameworks like React or Angular.
b. Update data dynamically without requiring page reloads
using WebSocket or server-sent events (SSE).

2. Alerts and Notifications

Business Need:

Homeowners want to receive alerts for high energy consumption or

unusual patterns.

Technical Specifications:

1. Threshold-Based Alert System:

a. Implement a rule engine to define and evaluate
thresholds for energy consumption (e.g., energy >
5kWh/hour).
b. Use configurable thresholds set by users in the
application.
2. Notification Services:
a. Integrate with push notification services (e.g., Firebase
Cloud Messaging, Apple Push Notification Service).
b. Support SMS and email notifications using APIs like Twilio
or SendGrid.
3. Real-Time Analytics:
a. Employ stream processing tools (e.g., Apache Kafka or
AWS Kinesis) to detect anomalies in energy usage and
trigger alerts in real time.
3. Energy Optimization

Business Need:

Users want to automate energy optimization through appliance

scheduling and receive recommendations.

Technical Specifications:

1. Scheduling Module:
a. Create a scheduling engine with cron-like functionality to
control appliance operation based on user-defined time
slots.
b. Use APIs provided by smart device manufacturers for
remote control.
2. Optimization Algorithms:
a. Use machine learning models to analyze usage patterns
and recommend optimal schedules.
b. Incorporate peak-hour pricing data from utility providers
to adjust schedules dynamically.
3. Energy Usage Forecasting:
a. Implement predictive models (e.g., ARIMA or LSTM) to
forecast energy usage and costs.
4. Renewable Energy Integration

Business Need:

Users want to monitor renewable energy contribution and prioritize

its use.

Technical Specifications:

1. Energy Source Tracking:

a. Develop modules to differentiate energy inputs (e.g.,
solar, wind, grid) using data from energy meters.
b. Store and display renewable energy contribution as a
percentage of total consumption.
2. Prioritization Logic:
a. Build a decision-making algorithm to prioritize renewable
energy usage based on availability.
b. Provide fallback to grid energy when renewable sources
are insufficient.
3. Integration APIs:
a. Integrate APIs from renewable energy providers (e.g.,
solar inverters or energy management systems).

5. Reporting and Analytics

Business Need:

Homeowners want detailed reports and actionable insights on

energy usage.
Technical Specifications:

1. Reporting Engine:
a. Use reporting tools (e.g., JasperReports or Tableau
Embedded) to generate consumption reports.
b. Allow export options in multiple formats (e.g., PDF, CSV).
2. Analytics Module:
a. Implement a data analytics layer using tools like Python
Pandas or Apache Spark for trend analysis.
b. Include visualization libraries (e.g., [Link] or [Link]) for
intuitive data representation.
3. Comparison Feature:
a. Enable users to compare their consumption data with
benchmark data or similar households using pre-
aggregated datasets.

6. User Management

Business Need:

Homeowners want to manage access for family members with role-

based permissions.

Technical Specifications:

1. Authentication:
a. Use OAuth 2.0 or OpenID Connect for secure user
authentication.
 b. Support multi-factor authentication (MFA) for additional
security.
2. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC):
a. Define roles (e.g., Admin, Viewer) and permissions for
accessing different system features.
b. Store user roles in a relational database (e.g., MySQL or
PostgreSQL).
3. Invitation Management:
a. Allow admin users to invite secondary users via email
with unique invitation links.
b. Provide secondary users limited access based on
permissions assigned by the admin.

7. Data Security and Privacy

Business Need:

Users want their energy data to be secure and private.

Technical Specifications:

1. Data Encryption:
a. Use AES-256 encryption for data storage.
b. Implement SSL/TLS for secure data transmission.
2. Access Control:
a. Restrict data access using role-based permissions.
b. Log all user actions for audit purposes.
3. Compliance:
 a. Ensure compliance with GDPR, CCPA, or other relevant
data protection laws.
b. Include a consent management system for data
collection and sharing.

8. System Setup

Business Need:

Users want an easy setup process for integrating IoT devices with
the system.

Technical Specifications:

1. Device Discovery:
a. Implement a device discovery protocol using UPnP or
mDNS for auto-detecting compatible devices.
2. Setup Wizard:
a. Create a guided setup wizard for users to configure
devices and thresholds during initial installation.
3. Diagnostics Tool:
a. Provide a built-in diagnostics feature to test device
connectivity and system performance.

Summary Table

Business Need Key Technical Specifications

Real-Time Energy IoT protocols, time-series database,
Monitoring WebSocket for real-time updates
Alerts and Rule engine, push notification services,
Notifications stream processing tools
Energy Scheduling engine, ML algorithms, pricing
Optimization data integration
Renewable Energy Energy source tracking, prioritization
Integration algorithms, renewable energy APIs
Reporting and Reporting engine, visualization libraries,
Analytics benchmarking datasets
User Management OAuth 2.0, RBAC, invitation management
Data Security and AES-256 encryption, SSL/TLS, GDPR
Privacy compliance
Device discovery, setup wizard, diagnostics
System Setup
tool
Business Requirements Document (BRD)

Project Title:

Smart Home Energy Management System (SHEMS)

Document Version:

1.0

Date:

25th November 2024

1. Executive Summary

The Smart Home Energy Management System (SHEMS) is a home

automation platform developed by EcoSmart to help homeowners
monitor and optimize their energy consumption. The system
integrates IoT-enabled devices, predictive analytics, and renewable
energy tracking to promote sustainable living and reduce energy
costs. This BRD outlines the business objectives, scope,
requirements, and other essential elements to guide the
development and implementation of the system.

2. Business Objectives

1. Primary Objective:
 a. Enable real-time energy consumption monitoring and
optimization for homeowners.
2. Secondary Objectives:
a. Reduce household energy costs.
b. Promote environmental sustainability through renewable
energy integration.
c. Provide actionable insights to users for improved energy
efficiency.
d. Enhance customer satisfaction with an intuitive, user-
friendly interface.

3. Scope

In-Scope:

• Real-time energy monitoring for the entire home and individual

devices.
• Alerts and notifications for energy consumption thresholds.
• Energy optimization through scheduling and predictive
analytics.
• Integration with renewable energy sources.
• Detailed reporting and analytics of energy usage trends.
• User management with role-based access control.

Out-of-Scope:

• Development of proprietary IoT hardware.

• Marketing and promotional activities.
 • On-site installation services.

4. Stakeholders

Stakeholder Role Responsibility

Project Sponsor Provide funding and strategic oversight.
Product Manager Define and prioritize product features.
IoT Development
Implement device integration protocols.
Team
Software Develop the SHEMS application and
Development Team backend.
Promote the SHEMS to target
Marketing Team
audiences.
Homeowners (End
Provide feedback and use the system.
Users)
Collaborate on energy usage and pricing
Energy Providers
data integration.

5. Business Requirements

Priori
ID Requirement
ty
BR
- The system must provide real-time monitoring of total Must
00 household energy consumption. Have
1
BR
- The system must display energy usage by individual Must
00 IoT-enabled devices. Have
2
BR
- The system must send alerts when energy Must
00 consumption exceeds a predefined threshold. Have
3
BR
- The system must allow users to create and manage Must
00 schedules for appliance operation. Have
4
BR
- The system must integrate with renewable energy Must
00 sources and display their contribution. Have
5
BR
- The system must generate energy consumption Must
00 reports for specified time periods. Have
6
BR
Shou
- The system should provide predictive analytics for
ld
00 energy consumption trends.
Have
7
BR
Shou
- The system should notify users about potential
ld
00 appliance maintenance needs.
Have
8
BR
Shou
- The system should allow multiple user roles with role-
ld
00 based access control.
Have
9
BR
Coul
- The system could support integration with third-party
d
01 smart home ecosystems (e.g., Alexa, Google).
Have
0

6. Functional Requirements

Mapping to
I
Requirement Business
D
Requirement
F
R- The system must collect energy
0 consumption data from IoT-enabled devices BR-001, BR-002
0 every 5 seconds.
1
F
R-
The system must trigger notifications via
0 BR-003
push, email, or SMS.
0
2
F
The system must allow users to define
R- BR-004
schedules using a calendar-like interface.
0
0
3
F
R- The system must store data in a time-series
0 database for efficient analytics and BR-006, BR-007
0 reporting.
4
F
R-
The system must support user
0 BR-009
authentication via OAuth 2.0.
0
5
F
R-
The system must encrypt all stored and
0 BR-001, BR-005
transmitted data using AES-256.
0
6

7. Non-Functional Requirements

ID Requirement
NFR
- The system must handle up to 10,000 concurrent users.
001
NFR
The system must provide a response time of less than 2
-
seconds for real-time monitoring features.
002
NFR
The system must ensure 99.9% uptime for critical
-
functionalities.
003
NFR
The system must comply with GDPR and CCPA data
-
protection regulations.
004

8. Assumptions

1. All IoT-enabled devices comply with standard communication

protocols (e.g., Zigbee, MQTT).
2. Homeowners have access to a stable internet connection for
real-time monitoring.
3. Energy providers will provide API access for pricing and
consumption data.

9. Risks

Risk Mitigation Strategy

High complexity in Partner with leading IoT
integrating third-party IoT manufacturers for seamless
devices. compatibility.
Data breaches due to Implement advanced encryption
cybersecurity threats. and intrusion detection systems.
User adoption challenges for Provide an intuitive setup wizard
non-tech-savvy users. and user training materials.
10. Glossary

Term Definition
IoT (Internet of Devices connected to the internet to share
Things) and analyze data.
Renewable Energy generated from natural sources like
Energy solar or wind.
An open standard for secure user
OAuth 2.0
authentication.
General Data Protection Regulation for data
GDPR
privacy in the EU.

11. Approval

Nam Signatu
Role Date
e re
Project
Sponsor
Product
Manager
Business
Analyst
THANK YOU