Facility management is crucial for ensuring that people feel safe and welcome in their work environment. Since people spend about 87% of their time indoors, it’s essential that buildings are managed effectively to prevent disruptions and hazards. With buildings becoming smarter and technology more advanced, facility management has become even more critical.
What is Facility Management?
The term “facility” refers to a physical space where business activities take place, such as office suites, retail establishments, hospitals, or any structure where people gather for work or other activities. Facility management, according to the International Standards Organization (ISO), is a profession that integrates people, place, and process within a built environment to improve the quality of life of people in an organization and boost business productivity.
In simpler terms, facility management involves coordinating the physical workplace with the people and tasks of an organization to support business goals in a cost-effective way.
Types of Facility Management
Facility management can be divided into two main components:
1. Hard Facility Management (Hard FM):
This involves managing the physical structures, including design, planning, furniture, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, wiring, and elevators.
2. Soft Facility Management (Soft FM):
This focuses on tasks performed by people, such as security, cleaning, ICT, HR, catering, and hospitality.
Top 4 Reasons Facility Management is Important
1. Work-Life Productivity:
A good facility management team ensures that employees can fulfill their daily duties effectively by maintaining a clean, organized, and functional workspace.
2. Safety and Comfort:
Facility managers are responsible for ensuring that the building and its equipment meet safety standards, reducing risks and making the workplace comfortable for all.
3. Profitability and Cost Reduction:
Facility management helps maximize profits and reduce unnecessary operational costs through efficient resource management, such as energy management systems.
4. Scalability:
Facility management promotes sustainable practices, such as waste reduction and energy efficiency, helping businesses grow and adapt to future challenges.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Facility Manager
A facility manager is responsible for the maintenance of a business’s buildings, ensuring they meet legal and safety standards. Key responsibilities include:
- Advising on ways to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Maintaining basic facilities to ensure safety.
- Overseeing renovations and facility projects.
- Managing budgets and handling emergencies.
- Ensuring compliance with regulations.
How to Become a Facility Manager
To become a facility manager, one typically needs a diploma or degree in facility management or a related field such as engineering, architecture, or environmental sciences. Professional certifications, hands-on experience, and recognition by organizations like the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) are also important.
Conclusion
Facility management plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and productivity of a business’s physical environment. From maintaining the building infrastructure to ensuring the well-being of its occupants, facility managers are essential for any organization’s success.
If you’re ready to enhance your facility management practices, consult with Max-Migold’s Facility Management Advisory team. We’re here to help your business scale efficiently.
