How have you creatively solved FM challenges?

In my 25 years of experience, I have narrowed down to few points which can be implemented in any setup be it an industry, a corporate office, a hotel, or a hospital, it can resolve most of the Facility Management challenges and can significantly improve services. These are right hiring and placement, Audit, Compliance & Training (ACT). And I rate ACT the most. As a Facility Manager, one has to consistently Audit facilities for ongoing challenges, implement immediate solutions, and train the staff responsible for managing facility services. If ACT is placed properly and acted upon, most of the issues can be removed even before emergence. But how do you know if your Manager is actually Aware, Augmented and Active to implement ACT Model?

In FM, innovation is our compass. Here's a snapshot of how we've charted new territories: Innovative Approaches: Breaking free from norms, we've redefined the game. Our unconventional thinking led us to solutions others were hesitant to explore. Tech Odyssey: Embraced cutting-edge tech, our strategic ally in redefining efficiency. ???? Eco-Warrior Path: Forged a sustainable route, intertwining eco-friendly practices. ???? Beyond compliance, it's a mindset. Harmony Collaboration: Victories echo where team harmony prevails. ????Collaborative triumphs unlocked doors we couldn't have opened alone. Futuristic Frontiers: We shape trends, future-ready in the FM landscape. ??? #FMInnovation #FacilitiesManagement #PioneeringExcellence

As a seasoned FM, I understand that resolving a facility management-related problem requires a systematic and organized approach. Hence the 1st line of action I would take is to 1. Identify the Problem: Clearly define the problem and its scope. Gather all relevant information and data related to the issue. Understand its impact on the facility and its occupants. 2. Assess the Severity: Determine the severity, impact of business continuity, and urgency of the problem. Is it an immediate safety concern, or does it affect daily operations? I would prioritize issues based on their business impact and potential risks.

Sometimes we can get blindsided by thinking too much- simple, straightforward and cost efficient solutions can often be utilised. For example a continual intermittent leak on a hard to access roof had been causing issues for years- specialists had looked at it and various solutions were put forward all with substantial cost. Going in with an open mind and within a few hours a low risk , quick and very cost effective means of capping and sealing a join between a wall and single ply membrane roof was proposed as first choice- if it didn’t work then try again. ￡200 for Upvc trim and high grade sealant, 2 days labour and 6 years of no leaks or fabric damage below proved the right decision. Looking into the box is easier than outside it at times

The next line of action I would take is to do the following: 1. Determine the Root Cause Analysis: Investigate the root causes of the problem. Analyze data, review maintenance records, and conduct on-site inspections to identify what led to the issue. 2. Develop a Plan: Create a comprehensive plan for addressing the problem. Define specific objectives, milestones, and responsibilities. Determine the required resources, including personnel, materials, and equipment. 3. Review the Budget: Assess the financial impact of the problem and prepare a budget that covers the costs associated with repairs, maintenance, or improvements. 4. Risk Mitigation: If the problem poses safety or security risks, take immediate steps to mitigate these risks.

You're absolutely right! When confronted with Facility Management challenges, it's essential to think creatively and explore unconventional solutions. Here's another example: In a corporate office setting, a facility manager aimed to enhance employee well-being and productivity. They introduced biophilic design elements, incorporating natural elements like indoor plants, natural light, and soothing water features, which not only improved the working environment but also positively impacted employees' health and job satisfaction.

The next steps would be to: 1. Execute the Plan: Implement the plan according to the defined timeline and with the assigned responsibilities. Ensure that all activities are carried out efficiently and safely. 2. Monitor Progress: Continuously monitor the progress of the problem resolution. Use key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure progress and make adjustments if necessary. 3. Quality Control: Ensure that the work being performed meets quality standards. Conduct regular inspections and quality checks to verify that the issue is being resolved effectively.

Communication: Keep all relevant stakeholders informed about the progress and expected outcomes. Maintain open lines of communication with occupants, staff, and management. Documentation: Maintain comprehensive records of all actions taken to resolve the problem. This documentation is valuable for future reference and analysis.

Continuous learning is a key word and when we stop analyzing our failures and learning from our mistakes we will stop growing and developing Admit your faults and failures and use them as lessons to move forward and do better next time, they also teach us how to make contingency plans and evaluate risks better Never stop learning and don’t think that learning stops because you grew old in fact we become old when we stop learning

Testing and Validation: After the resolution plan is executed, thoroughly test and validate the solution. Verify that the problem has been effectively resolved and that it won't reoccur. Review and Lessons Learned: Once the issue is resolved, conduct a post-implementation review to evaluate the effectiveness of the solution. Identify lessons learned to prevent similar problems in the future.

To solve facilities management challenges through creativity, follow these steps: identify the challenges, brainstorm solutions, seek inspiration, utilize technology, promote collaboration, experiment and prototype, embrace flexibility, and encourage continuous improvement. This approach fosters innovative solutions that improve efficiency and effectiveness in facility management operations.

Here are some additional considerations to enhance your problem-solving approach: Involve team members from diverse backgrounds and expertise to bring different perspectives and ideas to the table, look at best practices, stay updated on emerging technologies relevant to FM, establish continuous feedback mechanisms, assess the long-term implications of your solutions, utilize data analytics, consider pilot new solutions …..etc

Preventive Measures: Implement preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of a recurrence of the problem. Update maintenance plans, conduct regular inspections, and address underlying issues. Continuous Improvement: Use the experience gained from problem resolution to improve FM processes and systems. Follow-Up: Carry out Facility Condition Assessment (FCA) after the issue has been resolved to ensure long-term success. From experience, I know that there is no ready-made solution, each FM-related problem may require unique solutions, and the approach should be tailored to the specific situation. Effective communication, collaboration, and a proactive approach are essential in resolving facility management issues successfully.

Facility management involves various factors like predictive maintenance, energy efficiency, technology integration, space utilization, budget optimization, user engagement, employee training and sustainability initiatives. Constant evolvement of the above routine processes prepares us for any forthcoming challenges in the facilities. If faced with a challenge, approach systematically as mentioned by various experts in the article involving the key stakeholders, research solutions and continuously monitor the progress while adjusting to optimal results. Do not forget to document the whole process as it a valuable reference.

A criatividade faz parte do dia a dia do FM, diariamente somos desafiados a pensar fora da caixa, pois aparecem situa??es e por que n?o solicita??es, que nos fazem ser criativos, porém criatividade com responsabilidade, afinal dependendo do que for pode impactar em todas as pessoas dentro do ambiente. Eu somaria a Criatividade, a Inova??o, o Cuidado e a Resiliência como parte das nossas habilidades desenvolvidas diariamente.