How do you integrate facility management with other business functions?

1 Align FM with organizational goals

One of the first steps to integrate FM with other business functions is to align FM with the organizational goals and strategies. This means understanding the vision, mission, values, and objectives of the organization, and how FM can support and enhance them. For example, if the organization aims to reduce its environmental impact, FM can implement green initiatives, such as energy efficiency, waste management, and sustainable procurement. Aligning FM with organizational goals also helps to communicate the value and impact of FM to the senior management and stakeholders.

2 Collaborate with other business functions

Another key step to integrate FM with other business functions is to collaborate with them. This means establishing regular communication, coordination, and cooperation with the other departments and teams that depend on or affect the facilities and assets. For example, FM can work with human resources to design and manage the workplace culture, well-being, and engagement of the employees. FM can also work with IT to ensure the compatibility and security of the technology and infrastructure. Collaborating with other business functions also helps to identify and resolve issues, optimize resources, and create synergies.

3 Adopt a customer-centric approach

A third step to integrate FM with other business functions is to adopt a customer-centric approach. This means focusing on the needs, expectations, and satisfaction of the internal and external customers that use or benefit from the facilities and assets. For example, FM can conduct surveys, feedback sessions, and interviews to understand the preferences and pain points of the customers. FM can also use data and analytics to measure and improve the performance and quality of the facilities and assets. Adopting a customer-centric approach also helps to enhance the reputation and loyalty of the organization.

4 Leverage technology and innovation

A fourth step to integrate FM with other business functions is to leverage technology and innovation. This means embracing the latest tools, trends, and solutions that can improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and agility of FM. For example, FM can use digital platforms, such as computer-aided facility management (CAFM), building information modeling (BIM), and internet of things (IoT), to automate, monitor, and optimize the facility operations and maintenance. FM can also use innovation methods, such as design thinking, lean management, and agile development, to create new value propositions and services for the customers.

5 Develop FM skills and competencies

A fifth step to integrate FM with other business functions is to develop FM skills and competencies. This means enhancing the knowledge, abilities, and attitudes of the FM staff and managers to perform their roles and responsibilities effectively. For example, FM can provide training, coaching, and mentoring to improve the technical, managerial, and interpersonal skills of the FM team. FM can also encourage learning, development, and certification opportunities to keep up with the changing demands and standards of the FM profession.

6 Review and improve FM processes and practices

A sixth step to integrate FM with other business functions is to review and improve FM processes and practices. This means evaluating and benchmarking the current state and performance of FM, and identifying and implementing areas for improvement and innovation. For example, FM can use audits, assessments, and reports to measure and monitor the quality, efficiency, and compliance of the FM activities and outcomes. FM can also use best practices, frameworks, and standards, such as ISO 41000, to guide and improve the FM processes and practices.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?