Facilities Management
Facilities management (FM) involves the coordination and management of various physical assets, infrastructure, and services within an organization to ensure functionality, efficiency, safety, and comfort for occupants. FM encompasses a broad range of activities related to the maintenance, operation, and optimization of facilities and their support services. FM includes the maintenance and upkeep of buildings, grounds, and infrastructure to ensure they remain in good condition and comply with safety and regulatory standards. This involves preventive maintenance, routine inspections, repairs, and upgrades as needed.FM professionals are responsible for optimizing the use of space within facilities to support organizational objectives and accommodate changing needs. This may involve space planning, allocation, utilization tracking, and reconfiguration to maximize efficiency and productivity.Facilities managers prioritize customer service and satisfaction by addressing occupant needs and feedback, resolving issues promptly, and maintaining open communication channels with stakeholders. They strive to create a positive and comfortable environment that supports the organization’s goals and objectives.Facilities managers ensure compliance with relevant regulations, codes, and standards governing facility operations, safety, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. They stay updated on regulatory requirements and implement policies and procedures to maintain compliance.
Role of the Facilities Management
As organizations continue to look for ways to improve efficiency and cut costs, the goals of the facilities management department are twofold:To achieve these goals, facility managers must be able to effectively manage a wide range of job responsibilities, including:
- Building maintenance and repairs
- Energy management and sustainability
- Business continuity planning and emergency management
- Cleaning and custodial services
- Security
- Landscaping
- Parking
- Event management
- Shipping and receiving
- Space planning