Robbie Hobbs is the bearer of some unfortunate news for facility managers (FMs): they can expect to face an increase in workload, reporting requirements, data management and compliance tasks. On top of that, budget cuts, a shortage of qualified workers and tighter margins for service providers will add to their challenges.
However, according to JLL’s recently published report “The State of Facilities Management Technology 2024,” FMs can look forward to achieving more with the help of technology advancements. The report states that “software automation combined with innovative technologies will be key in improving efficiency and compensating for understaffing.”
JLL experts also shared their insights on how technology is transforming facilities management. Robbie Hobbs, Chief Product Officer at JLL Work Dynamics commented: “We are witnessing a shift from manual processes involving complex paperwork and siloed systems towards automated solutions that simplify operations through digitization.”
Current Situation
Technology has been used in facilities management before but its potential has not been fully realized yet. The report reveals that automation already exists within FM workflows by handling 80% tasks such as request assignment and dispatch all the way through execution up until invoice submission review.
Despite this progress, there are still issues surrounding inconsistent use of technology which often takes form as separate point solutions without proper integration or attention given to quality control or data governance. As a result organizations continue facing challenges when it comes operational efficiency and decision-making.
Moreover building systems tend be isolated from each other making it difficult obtain an overall view performance across different facilities which hinders proactive decision-making process.
Lastly most technological applications tend only address problems after they have occurred leading increased downtime repair costs due reactive approach taken by FMs explained Hobbs .
Expanding FM Technology
Jim Whittaker Head Workplace Products at JLL Work Dynamics highlights two areas where significant ROI achieved thanks effective use tech namely asset energy management . According Whittaker both these require high-quality real-time batch processed data order deliver cost savings. Real-time data allows for immediate action while trending can be used long-term strategy planning.
For example, analyzing energy consumption trends over a period of time can help FM teams implement measures to reduce costs and environmental impact. Similarly, looking at equipment performance and lifespan enables accurate maintenance planning.
Takeaway
Monica Vutla Head Sustainability Product JLL Work Dynamics points out that despite having access vast amounts of data CRE stakeholders are struggling make sense it all . While there is an abundance information available not all it may be relevant or reliable enough actionable decisions.
The report highlights how FMs continue rely on software improve efficiency counteract effects understaffing increasing work orders rising labor costs concerns about potential recession. Automation will play key role reducing repetitive tasks while innovative technologies provide visibility into operations drive insights greater efficiency .
Vutla emphasizes the need integrate sustainability other types such as location strategy market research maintenance design construction . By combining real-time traditional datasets FMs able identify respond emerging issues immediately .
This approach also allows managers adjust energy usage based on demand response optimize equipment performance create comfortable workspaces occupants save both energy maintenance costs concludes Vutla.
