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2019 FM Priorities

As the year draws to a close, we’re taking a look back at what aspects of facility management most interested those in the sector over the last 12 months.

The most popular of our blogs in 2022 reveal an increased focus on data management – both in the capturing of relevant, accurate data as well as how to use it to operate more effectively. The post-pandemic environment has seen organizations use data to identify how to work smarter with available resources, as well as building the foundation or improving usage of smart technology like sensors, BIM and digital twins.

However, not every organization is in the same place when it comes to their digital journey. Many are transitioning from paper and spreadsheets to embark on their IWMS journey for the first time, and are working to improve their processes and data alongside this. Top Tips for Creating an Asset Register was our third most popular blog this year, providing guidance on what an asset register should contain, the benefit to asset management and PPM schedules, and how to group and standardize data to ensure the asset register is easy to use and simple to build upon in the future.

The theme of compliance and standardized data was high on the agenda for the UK, who wanted to know What is SFG20 and Why Should You Be Using It? SFG20 is recognized as the UK industry standard for building maintenance specifications, but we have also seen interest in the Middle East from those keen to take advantage of best practice measures. It offers a database of over 1200 maintenance schedules and instructions for more than 70 equipment types, taking the research out of best practice maintenance for each asset and integrating with IWMS software for hassle-free scheduling. SFG20 also aligns with the Uniclass data classification system which standardizes how project information is classified and is a requirement of BIM as set out by ISO 19650.

Relatedly, How Does BIM Benefit Facilities Managers was our most read blog globally, highlighting the growing interest in building information modelling and was often read alongside the Beginner’s Guide to BIM and Digitization. BIM has been somewhat of a slow burner for FM, traditionally seen as primarily operating in the realms of construction. However, with the increased focus on data management, legal compliance and more available case studies proving the benefits, more organizations are implementing BIM software and processes and we expect to see this grow further in 2023.

Some are looking even further ahead to the future of digitized data, asking Why a Digital Twin is the Next Big Thing. A digital twin is essentially a virtual replica of the building’s state in real time, allowing FMs to easily view performance, identify trends and detect building errors. Twins can also be used to test different scenarios such as the impact on air quality from a new asset, or how cooling systems would cope with more people in the building. This reduces the impact of disruption or dips in performance of the ‘live’ building environment and optimises the user experience for building occupiers.

As a nod to the world largely overcoming the pandemic and a return of in-person events, FMs (particularly in Oceania) wanted some tips from our blog The Importance of FM in Event Planning. This looks at how IWMS software can help FMs and guests be in the right place at the right time to help the event run smoothly both in the planning and live stages. Canada and North America were particularly interested in the technicalities of setting up hybrid workplaces, including the benefits of space management tools and How Lockers Are Key to Hybrid Workplaces. Not only do lockers provide secure storage when working on hot desks, they have the added benefit of allowing the coveted separation between work and home life, with which many have been struggling

And last but certainly not least, climate change and sustainability has been a key concern for organizations as the world attempts to reduce global warming by cutting back on emissions and waste. The biggest source of man-made greenhouse gases are electricity and heat, and businesses are responsible for 39% of these emissions. As of the built environment, FMs Should Take More Responsibility for Climate Change – especially as it has been found that those who work with their hands are better creative problem solvers than the rest of us. Our blog Improving Sustainability Through IWMS also provided guidance on ‘quick wins’ for energy management and money saving.

 

If you’d like to see what Service Works Global has been working on over the last year, have a look at our quarterly newsletters and join our email list here.

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