Internet of Things (IoT) and Augmented Reality
More and more companies specialize in technology like HVAC monitoring devices, fuel monitors, fitness equipment usage devices, grease trap monitors, etc. All can communicate with our software without any human interaction. Augmented reality with things like BIM (building information modeling) also will begin to transform facilities. Imagine the benefits of troubleshooting with an instruction manual displayed while working on an HVAC unit.
Mobile FM
The continued adoption/improvement of mobile tools. Enhancing the ease of use at the site level specifically fits perfectly within the culture/comfort of younger users.
AI & IOT
AI lets you automate, take the manual effort out, and allow you more time to be proactive, etc. by using the power of the data. IoT, with asset tagging and management. It’s not just buildings, it’s what is in the buildings.
Automation
As traditional brick and mortar stores struggle, FM budgets will be reduced, including headcount. FMs are going to have to do more with less so any place they can automate any process, but have checks and balances in place to stay within their budget, will be a win for them.
Mobile
Putting technology in the hands of all the end-users and increasingly we will be able to push things to them (repair videos, maps, work order details, etc.). That produces hands-on details and accurate information which results in effective resolution.
Asset-based IoT
Deeper investments in asset management and associated IoT. With shrinking budgets, this is the area that can contribute the most to savings: warranty claims, energy savings, etc.
FM On the Go
FMs and users on-site will be able to do anything they need to do on the go while travelling, at home, etc. to improve their performance and save time.
Auto Dispatch via IoT
Location users and FMs are typically not ‘asset’ experts and are not in front of the ‘asset’ 24/7. With IoT, assets will be able dispatch work orders (24/7 or set parameters) during the beginning stages of ‘break/fix’ and schedule preventive maintenance at an optimized schedule, resulting in maintenance cost reductions and asset life increases.
Rapidly Changing Tech with Rapidly Changing FM Roles/Responsibility
FMs will be more focused on leveraging advanced hardware and software technologies to identify technical solutions to better serve their locations.
Advanced Location Visualization
More interactive store maps that can display anything from assets to open work orders can give an FM a better understanding of what’s going on at a location, and allow visualizing new assets/fixtures/furniture before arrival at a location.
Analytics and Machine Learning
In today’s competitive world, it is imperative to do more with less. FMs are going to be challenged to find ways to save money, improve efficiencies and provide better service. They need to leverage intelligent automation and advanced analytics to achieve these goals.
In summary, Focus on What Makes Sense for You
Ease of use, asset management, integrated systems, budget tools. From the top-down, these are the sexy things larger FM teams like to talk about. Smaller organizations will probably focus on budget tools and how to get more with less. Workflow and automation based on certain types of criteria could also be something that would move the needle with that group.