Facilities management is an essential aspect of any building, no matter its type or purpose. Ensuring that a building runs smoothly contributes significantly to its functional ability and overall longevity. With the increasing demand for sustainability and the fast-changing trends in this technological age, the need for tech-enabled facilities management is more prevalent than ever.
Companies have turned to digital technology to optimize their services, adapt to technological and regulatory changes, and reduce expenses. This has led to an across-the-spectrum digitization of building maintenance and operations, with project management and collaboration software at the forefront. It’s an exciting time for the industry, and the results have been substantial in terms of increased efficiency, cost savings, and a better customer experience.
In this article, we’ll explore how digital technology is reshaping building maintenance and operations, covering energy management, security, and more. We’ll discuss the benefits of these advancements and their implications for the future of facilities management.
What’s driving the digitisation of building maintenance and operations?
As facility management strives to overcome inherent challenges, a powerful force propels the industry towards digitization. The pursuit of a data-driven approach is now more fervent than ever. Facility management companies are determined to establish stability in the market, each with their own unique goals, but united by a shared conviction.
The demand for sustainability has reached unprecedented levels
The goal of facility management has evolved drastically over the years. It has shifted from being purely task-oriented to being ecologically motivated, with a strong focus on sustainability. Today, facility management encompasses various aspects such as energy-efficient utilities, green cleaning practices, waste reduction and recycling initiatives, sustainable landscaping, and indoor air quality monitoring, just to name a few.
Furthermore, this amplified call for sustainable practices has not only transformed the way facilities are managed but also steered the industry towards a more data-driven and digital direction. Advanced technologies and innovative solutions are now being leveraged to optimize resource utilization, streamline operations, and enhance overall efficiency.
By embracing these environmentally conscious practices and adopting cutting-edge technologies, facility management is playing a crucial role in creating a more sustainable and greener future.
Digital transformations
The facilities management industry is embracing digital technology at a pace that exceeds earlier predictions. This rapid adoption of digital transformations is not limited to individual organizations but has become a communal effort as smart cities gradually take shape. In this evolving landscape, facilities management has become intricately tied to city-wide regulations, resulting in a seamless digital integration that permeates every aspect of society, from macro-level infrastructure to the microcosm of everyday life. As technology continues to advance, the facilities management industry is poised for even greater transformation, ushering in a new era of efficiency and innovation.
Facility management is taken into consideration during the planning and construction phases
In the past, construction projects were primarily focused on adhering to building codes. However, as advanced construction tools have emerged, facility management has become an integral part of the planning process. For instance, contractors now leverage collaboration software, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), to enhance stakeholder visualization of the project. Interestingly, BIM extends beyond construction and also encompasses facility management by providing multiple layers of data crucial for efficient building maintenance and operations management. With the integration of BIM, facility managers can access detailed information on various aspects of the building, enabling them to make informed decisions and streamline maintenance processes effectively. This holistic approach ensures that construction projects not only meet regulatory requirements but also prioritize long-term functionality and sustainability.
Streamlining facilities management with the power of digital technology
Digitisation has democratised the field of facilities management, offering equal growth prospects to companies of all sizes by leveraging cost-effective digital solutions. The advent of advanced tools such as project management software, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality has not only made these technologies more accessible but has also significantly amplified their impact on the industry.
As a result, digital technology is revolutionising facilities management by streamlining processes, enhancing operational efficiency, and enabling data-driven decision-making. From optimising maintenance schedules to improving energy management, the transformative potential of digitisation in facilities management is vast and continues to evolve.
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Predictive maintenance
Companies leverage a multitude of data-driven tools, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and the Internet of Things (IoT), to actively monitor equipment and systems in real-time. By doing so, they can swiftly identify and address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring that proactive measures are taken to prevent disruptions. This proactive approach empowers facilities managers to strategically schedule preventative maintenance, resulting in reduced downtime and minimized repair costs.
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Energy management
By utilizing advanced sensors and AI-powered monitoring and control systems, it becomes possible to effectively optimize the energy consumption of a building. For example, these sensors can be intelligently programmed to automatically shut off the power or water supply in unoccupied rooms or during an unforeseen incident, thereby ensuring maximum energy efficiency. This innovative approach not only reduces unnecessary wastage but also contributes towards creating a more sustainable and eco-friendlier environment.
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Building automation
Other building systems, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), as well as security, can also be effectively automated, ensuring the utmost comfort and safety for occupants. By integrating this cutting-edge technology into project management software, teams can not only store and analyze data but also leverage it for a multitude of other applications, enhancing overall efficiency and productivity. This seamless integration of automation and data analysis brings a new level of sophistication to building management, revolutionizing the way we optimize and utilize our built environments.
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Data analytics
Ensuring system functionality and optimizing building operations require the collection and analysis of vast amounts of data. With the help of digital tools, which are designed with ample storage and computing capacities, this process becomes faster and more efficient. These tools not only provide valuable insights into a building’s performance but also help identify specific areas for improvement. By leveraging the power of data, building operators can make informed decisions and implement strategies to enhance overall efficiency and sustainability.
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Mobile apps
Facilities management software is readily available on mobile devices, empowering facility managers and maintenance staff with convenient access to vital information. This allows them to swiftly report issues, receive real-time alerts, and effectively address any concerns while on the move. The seamless integration of this software enhances the team’s overall responsiveness, proactively preventing incidents from escalating and ensuring a smooth operational workflow.
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Virtual reality (VR)
Testing building systems for optimization can be a costly endeavor. However, with the advent of augmented and virtual reality, facilities managers now have the ability to perform these tests and gather valuable data through immersive simulations.
This not only provides a safer alternative by eliminating physical threats to personnel, but it also allows companies to conduct multiple trials, fine-tuning their systems for optimal performance and efficiency.
By leveraging these technologies, organizations can make informed decisions and ensure that their building systems are operating at their full potential, ultimately saving time, resources, and costs in the long run.
Tips for evaluating and implementing the right facilities management software solution
Facilities management software is the ultimate tech upgrade that every facilities management company needs to stay ahead. It not only enhances data analytics capacity but also streamlines processes, saving valuable time and effort. With a plethora of products available in the market, choosing the perfect software requires careful consideration.
It is worth noting that digital tools like this have a lower integration cost compared to traditional options, making them a cost-effective solution. However, it is essential to bear in mind that the initial investment may still be significant. Therefore, taking the time to evaluate the options and select the software that aligns perfectly with your company’s needs and goals is crucial for long-term success.
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Evaluate the company’s facilities management needs
Each project is different. Facilities managers must choose software that adapts to the project’s unique conditions. So it’s vital to carefully assess the specific management needs of the building when choosing facilities management software.
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Determine the available software solutions
There is no universal software for facilities management. Multiple software may be necessary to digitise a facilities management system altogether. There’s usually software for each critical facilities management task, including work order management, asset tracking, and integrated workplace management.
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Look for essential features
Evaluate each product thoroughly by comparing their features against the tasks you require and with other products. However, it would be best not to choose based on the number of features. Instead, examine the pros and cons of those features to weigh your options better.
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Ensure compatibility with existing systems
Some software products are only designed to integrate with modern systems. Companies preserving their legacy systems should choose facilities management software that is compatible even with much older systems and has no problem scaling up.
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Evaluate data security and privacy.
Some data gathered and analysed through facilities management software are sensitive and must be protected at all costs. There’s also the threat of data corruption or loss, for which the software must be able to provide a backup or prevent such events from occurring altogether.
Conclusion:
Facilities management, much like any other industry, is on the cusp of a digital revolution. With advancements in construction technology and the implementation of new laws, it has become imperative for facilities management companies to embrace full digitization.
By integrating various digital tools and updating outdated systems, maintenance and operations can be significantly improved, enhancing a building’s safety, comfort, and resilience.
However, achieving effective facilities management through digital integration requires the right facilities management software. Therefore, it is crucial for companies to carefully assess their needs and identify the most suitable product.
Opting for cost-efficient facilities management software, such as PlanRadar, which seamlessly integrates with most building maintenance and operation systems, can truly transform your business.
To learn more about how facilities management software can benefit your business, contact us today and start your 30-day free PlanRadar trial.
