# The Smart Buildings Revolution: A Comprehensive Review of the Smart Readiness Indicator Literature
## 4 Results and Discussion
### Research Gaps and Future Directions in the SRI's Dominant Themes
#### 4.2.6 Research Gap in SRI Score and Energy Performance  
The SRI represents a pivotal tool in advancing the energy efficiency and sustainability of buildings by assessing their readiness for smart technologies. Its potential to integrate with other frameworks, such as BIM, IoT, and energy performance certifications, underscores its versatility in promoting data-driven decision-making and holistic building management.  
[PERSON] et al. [62] proposed that future research should concentrate on refining the SRI methodology to provide more accurate assessments of smart readiness and energy efficiency in buildings across different contexts. Furthermore, research should investigate the impact of user-defined indicator weights on the SRI, considering operational building characteristics and technical aspects, and define the final weighting factors based on the implementation process.  
[PERSON] et al. [55] suggested the possibility of integrating the developed algorithms with existing BIM software packages, such as Revit (version 2025.3), to enhance the energy efficiency suggestions in building models with increased personalization options. Research should address the practical challenges, such as standardizing weight factors, incorporating energy flexibility metrics, and ensuring interoperability with national and international frameworks. By addressing these areas, the SRI can evolve into a robust tool that not only improves energy performance but also contributes to the global transition toward sustainable, resource-efficient, and low-carbon building practices [55].  
However, the current methodology has limitations, including the subjectivity in its evaluation and challenges in aligning with diverse operational contexts. Future advancements must focus on refining the SRI framework through enhanced quantitative measures, personalization, and integration with emerging technologies. [PERSON] et al. [62] proposed that future research should concentrate on refining the SRI methodology to provide more accurate assessments of smart readiness and energy efficiency in buildings across different contexts. Furthermore, research should investigate the impact of user-defined indicator weights on the SRI, considering operational building characteristics and technical aspects, and define the final weighting factors based on the implementation process.  
Similarly, according to [PERSON] et al. [44], the incorporation of the IoT into smart buildings should prioritize energy-efficient design processes across four essential tiers. These divisions include minimizing energy loss, integrating renewable energy systems, monitoring indoor environments, and managing building systems. Such a strategic approach should aim to optimize the utilization of IoT technologies within the built environment, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and sustainability.  
[PERSON] et al. [69] emphasized the importance of continued research to refine the indicators for quantifying energy flexibility. This includes considering aspects such as thermal and electric features, cost, smart readiness, and cluster composition. Furthermore, they emphasized the need for future studies to focus on evaluating the effectiveness of strategies in enhancing building readiness for the demand response and smart technologies.  
Overall, future research should aim to enhance the usability and effectiveness of the SRI methodology in promoting sustainable and comfortable built environments, while also addressing the practical challenges associated with its implementation and integration into existing frameworks.