Baxsys integrates data systems into building design

Included in that intricately arranged telecommunications room is a mass of cabling and equipment that makes up the school's intercom and telephone systems, its clock, and the fire alarm, security, computer and cable-TV systems.

The mix of data, voice and video is exactly how information systems should be integrated into buildings, says information designer Brad Baxter.

"Information is now a fourth utility, necessary in everyday life, at home and at work," said Baxter, who designed the system for the Sapulpa school.

Through his 14-year-old Tulsa company, Baxsys Inc., the former geophysicist assists architects and engineers with incorporating his system designs into each building plan.

He then works closely with building contractors, providing detailed, drafted plans to fit specific budgets.

"By putting systems together, I can help an owner have an integrated system that does a whole lot more" than a series of systems installed separately, Baxter said.

The services Baxter offers fall into a relatively new discipline called information engineering. It is better known on both the East and West coasts, he said, but is beginning to be recognized more in this part of the country.

Today, there are only about 6,000 registered designers worldwide, he said, and no more than 15 in Oklahoma.

Baxter founded his company after working as a geophysicist, a refinery engineer and a systems manager and network designer for such firms as City Service Gas Co., Conoco Inc. and Amerada Hess.

Baxsys at first provided clients with a maintenance service, and Baxter kept systems running smoothly. He also sometimes designed more powerful networks and computers for companies.

"Now the business is directed more toward designing rather than maintaining those systems," he said. "A large part of the job is inspecting our work."

Clients include contractors, school systems, architects and engineers, and IT professionals.

"Because I'm independent, I won't glaze over the fact that systems were put in wrong, or equipment wasn't the best grade," he said. "I want to have my clients' best interests at heart."

His goal for each customer is usually the same -- a system that saves money, works more efficiently and is more aesthetically pleasing.

"There are ways to blend equipment in, like alarms and cameras," he said.

Baxter designed a video arraignment system for the new Tulsa Jail, saving local government $2,000 each month, he said.

A project for Jenks Public Schools included developing specifications and designs for fire alarms, clocks and intercom systems, and integrating a telephone, TV and computer infrastructure.

Baxter said a system design for Union Public Schools ultimately saved the district $40,000 a month after he chose a private microwave rather than a commercial fiber network to connect voice, data and video systems between the district's 12 campuses.

"Putting them all together saved money by just being smarter with design," he said.

Debbie Blossom, World business writer, can be reached at 581-8387 or via e-mail at debbie.blossom@tulsaworld.com .

Spotlight

Corporate address :
2761 E. Skelly Drive, Suite 700

Service:
Network and system architecture

Management:
Brad Baxter, owner and certified information engineer

Employees:
3

Established:
1988