Facility management continues to evolve thanks to advances in smart building technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT). These types of solutions connect assets, building systems, and equipment to provide real-time data and insights that empower facility managers to monitor and control operations seamlessly.
Adopting smart technologies and harnessing data is critical for facilities managers to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and meet sustainability goals in the years ahead. So here are six best practices for smart facility management this year:
1. Lean in on preventative maintenance programs.
Leverage predictive analytics and real-time monitoring with solutions like Open Kitchen and SiteSage to identify potential equipment failures before they occur. That way, you can schedule preventative maintenance during off-hours to minimize disruption and costs due to emergency repairs. Take a proactive approach by building maintenance processes that leverage data and alerts from connected systems. For example, use real-time HVAC alerts to schedule seasonal tune-ups.
2. Fully automate through IoT platforms.
Connect and automate building systems, like HVAC and lighting, via centralized IoT platforms. This streamlines facility operations, reduces manual labor, and enhances energy efficiency. For example, you can automatically adjust HVAC usage based on real-time occupancy data rather than a rough schedule.
3. Adopt data-driven management practices.
Collect and analyze performance data across one or multiple locations to gain actionable insights. Closely tracking energy consumption, occupancy metrics, equipment health, and asset usage will allow you to make more intelligent maintenance, space utilization, and capital planning decisions. Appoint data analysts to derive intelligence from your connected systems.
4. Practice proactive facility management with real-time alerts.
Get ahead of all issues using real-time, customizable alerts and monitoring. The ability to prioritize your responses based on what’s most crucial will optimize daily maintenance workflows. This approach will also prevent minor issues from turning into big problems.
5. Build new facilities with a focus on future expansion.
When constructing or renovating buildings, design the assets and infrastructure to support the seamless adoption of smart systems in the future. Create a flexible, connected digital backbone to minimize integration hurdles as technology or expansion plans progress.
6. Provide training for facility managers, their teams, and key employees.
Provide extensive onboarding and ongoing training to facility management teams and building occupants on new smart systems and capabilities. Adequate training encourages engagement and user adoption, plus ensures the business gets the most out of your connected systems.
As smart technologies and IoT continue transforming and elevating facility management, following best practices around data-driven operations, preventative maintenance, and training will be vital in lowering costs and optimizing building efficiency.
To talk about these best practices and more, start a conversation with a member of our team.