Kimberly-Clark Professional intros smart restroom management system to monitor conditions

by Brianna Crandall — October 24, 2016 — Kimberly-Clark Professional 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. Kimberly-Clark Professional is the professional products division of Kimberly-Clark, global provider of solutions to enhance health, hygiene and well-being.

The Onvation technology system provides up-to-the-minute monitoring of restroom conditions from any device or location, 24 hours a day. It will be introduced at ISSA/INTERCLEAN North America 2016, October 25-28, via a 360° virtual reality experience.

Onvation restroom management system screen shot

The Onvation technology restroom management 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.”

The Onvation difference

Onvation Technology is a patent-protected restroom management 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.

360° virtual reality experience

ISSA/INTERCLEAN attendees will be able to experience Onvation Technology first-hand at the Kimberly-Clark Booth, 2849. “Through virtual reality goggles, a 360° video and a unique environment within the booth, they will be able to see exactly how this smart restroom management system works,” Sanchez added.

Onvation Technology delivers and relays information through a Web-based dashboard that is accessible 24/7.

Here is 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 pointed out.

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

Sanchez added:

Seventy-three percent of tenants say a bad restroom signals poor management. 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.

To learn more about the Onvation technology and other Kimberly-Clark Professional offerings, visit online or visit Booth 2849 at ISSA/INTERCLEAN North America 2016.