Time flies. We are 30% into 2014!

During the recent FPNet (Facilities Practitioner Network) meeting on 26^th February, we shared and exchanged views on “Communicating the Case for Change”. Most of us were caught off-guard when we were posed with case scenario to work on, such as the case for critical incidences where we as facilities practitioners will be called upon by management to explain the solutions to the problems. Other cases were such as opportunities for cost savings to contribute to organisation’s bottom-line. Many learning have led to awareness of the importance for facilities practitioners to be “ready” to present FM case.

This year’s theme is “Towards High Performance FM”. To be ready will also means to predict the trend of facilities management practices. Let’s look just into 2014 and the near future on how FM should be mindful of the emerging trends include mobile communication, computer software, biometric technology, etc.  Below briefly explains:

Mobile Communication
The trend is beyond the traditional telephone function like making telephone calls, and sending short messages (SMS). Today, besides mobile telephone, mobile hand held computing devices such as the tablet computers, are using “Apps” and cloud computing to enhance communication efficiency and work productivity in FM activities.

Computer Software
That include Integrated Workplace Management System (IWMS), Computerised Management System (CMMS), Energy Management System (EMS) and with the recent being the mandatory Building Information Modelling (BIM), for architectural and engineering plans, e-submission for new building projects to be submitted in BIM format for regulatory approval.

Biometric Technology
The use of fingerprint and facial based biometric technology for security door access and time attendance for payroll to enable a more precise recognition and record.

Outsourcing FM Contracts  
One of the key reasons that interest organisations is the potential in gaining value and reducing risks. This trend will mean that facilities managers will need to be multi-discipline integrators and also partners with the outsource service providers.

Strategy Focus  
Organisations are realising that FM can add value to the business bottom line and to achieve competitive advantage with organisation taking a more strategic approach to FM resources to achieve cost savings, enhance workplace productivity, security and safety. The focus is shifting from service oriented to value contribution.

Fellow facilities practitioners, there are many potential opportunities for us to demonstrate the values of FM. Know that a little change in advancing the value of FM makes a big difference.

To start, you don’t have to be good. To be good, you have to start.