Industry Trends In Facility Management
Whether for a large industrial facility, college or university, medical center, or elsewhere, facility management is a critical component of keeping everything running smoothly. Focusing on such areas as housekeeping services, security, maintenance, and much more, those who work in facility management must always be aware of the latest industry trends. As 2020 nears its end, here are some of the top industry trends within facility management that will be evident in 2021.
Biometric Technology
As schools, office complexes, and other places become much more cognizant regarding security measures, biometric technology will be one of the top trends in facility management. As such, buildings will start to incorporate what are known as biology-based security systems into their layouts. By doing so, identities of those wanting to enter a building can be verified using fingerprints, voices, retinal scanning, or even facial recognition technology.
Data-Driven Decisions
As facilities make more and more use of technology, one of the most common trends appears to be a greater emphasis on data-driven decision-making. Since costs are always a concern and are expected to be an even greater concern due to the impact of COVID-19 on budgets, more and more facility management personnel will be closely scrutinizing data to see if money can be saved regarding hiring, purchasing of supplies, and much more.
Continuing Education
Since facility management has become an industry that relies on technology much more than in years past, continuing education is becoming increasingly important for management personnel and their employees. Whether it’s attending a conference to learn more about various high-tech security measures, having an on-site workshop to learn how to use the latest cleaning equipment, or various other learning opportunities, expect facility management to emphasize learning new techniques and methods much more in 2021.
Building Information Modeling
Known as BIM, Building Information Modeling involves using sophisticated computer software to create 3-D, interactive models of buildings before they are actually constructed. By using this technology, facility management personnel can easily examine how a building will likely function once it comes to life. For example, engineers can work with facility managers to find out how to place HVAC units, machinery, and other systems to ensure the greatest efficiency will be achieved. Expected to revolutionize facility management over the next decade, BIM is definitely here to stay.
Flexible Workspaces
In more and more buildings, flexible workspaces are becoming very common. With the price of commercial real estate continuing to rise, building owners want to have greater flexibility so their properties will appeal to more potential tenants. As a result, facility managers are now overseeing areas that include activity-based workstations and even nap rooms for employees. Due to the ability of these properties to change layouts quickly, facility managers are now receiving much more training in how to adapt to this evolving trend.
Wearable Technology
Whether it’s a smartwatch, wristband that allows communication with Amazon Alexa, or other devices, wearable technology is being used more and more by facility management employees. In doing so, it offers several advantages. For example, if personnel are wearing PPE in a hazardous area, the wearable technology allows them to gain entry to areas without having to remove their PPE. In addition, it also allows managers to keep track of employee movements, creating a safer work environment.
Considered one of the fastest-growing career fields today, facility management is undergoing tremendous changes in regards to technology and other related areas. As 2021 arrives, the above-mentioned trends are going to be extremely important in creating work environments that are safe, cost-effective, and provide opportunities for facility management personnel to maximize their skills.