In the business world, it is easy for others to say, “the business needs this!” or “the business is missing that”. But without explaining what certain positions mean and what benefits are offered when new roles or protocols are put in place, it just sounds like another unimportant task to get around to — especially if all the mandatory bases are covered. After all, that is what the manager is for, right?
But what if businesses are missing out on roles that can help business flow more smoothly and more safely, or prevent chaos rather than controlling it?
This piece will discuss what facilities management is and what the benefits are of implicating these management roles into a business.
What is Facilities Management?
Simply put, facilities management is a role that is defined as a manager of facilities; however, the scope of the job role for a facilities manager far outweighs the definition as a facilities manager is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of a business, which can be extremely vast and dense!
A facilities manager is the go-to person for ensuring a business is running as smoothly as possible, conducting inspections, and liaising with those who make decisions about the business. Generally, a facility manager is responsible for everything relating to the physical infrastructure of the business.
The benefits of a facility manager include a smooth-running business, consistent health and safety, and optimized time!
What are the Benefits of Having Facilities Management?
There are plenty of benefits when it comes to facilities management, as they are often the backbone of a business, and great management means an even better business. The benefits of hiring a facilities manager include both employees and hiring businesses, which means both can work together in harmony.
Planning for the Future of the Business
While a facility manager makes sure businesses work to an acceptable standard, it is also facilities management roles that plan for the future to keep businesses working at this desired standard.
This means having foresight into positive and essential changes to make sure business runs as smoothly and successfully as normal. This role includes assessing what equipment needs upgrading and what future projects will need.
Dealing with Emergencies
One of the biggest emergency’s businesses faced was the COVID crisis, which could not have been predicted. It is the facilities management role to deal with emergencies like these and keep situations from escalating. While COVID is not completely preventable, a facilities manager may implement safety strategies such as social distancing markers, or clear signs for handwashing and sanitation to prevent the spread of the disease. A facility manager will make sure stores and offices are safe to reopen and are in line with government guidelines.
Creating Plans for Repairs and Replacements
Because facility managers are responsible for the seamless running of the facility, repairs and replacements also come under this role. Facility managers are there to plan ahead for any maintenance or repairs in order to limit as much disruption to a working day as possible.
