CAFM & IT
THE EVOLUTION OF CAFM
With CAFM worth an estimated £11 billion to the UK economy, Scott Newland, Chief Operating Officer at European Customer Synergy, discusses the importance of providing the facilities management industry with complementary tools.
Computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) is one of many systems used by facilities managers to assist in the smooth running of their FM portfolio. CAFM is a worthy tool if the time is taken to populate the system in a detailed manner. However, the often reactive nature of CAFM means that it tends to be used on a one-dimensional scale, not allowing for the user to undertake benchmarking or data analysis.
Despite the large investment in CAFM functions, by not using the systems to their full capacity, FMs are missing out on the opportunities posed by having access to such extensive amounts of information.
A BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD The future of CAFM is bright. The
industry is beginning to see the development of complementary software, which if used in tandem with a CAFM system, can transform a regular CAFM function into a proactive tool that will revolutionise the way FM operates.
For example, rather than engineers constantly checking on equipment to see if it is working, CAFM systems will be able to monitor the equipment and send an engineer when needed.
This is already being seen with the ‘Internet of Things’, connecting objects through networks, and providing real-time data on lifecycles
22 | TOMORROW’S FM
of equipment such as air conditioning units and lighting.
If a problem arises, the CAFM system should be able to identify it and report it for repair rather than waiting for someone to contact the FM helpdesk. It could also send a request to the nearest engineer via a handheld device or smartphone.
A good example of the innovation being showcased by the industry is the launch of our partner, OKIN’s, new software called ‘DRIVE!’. Operating on real-time data, the tool learns over time from the data collected in day-to-day operations, allowing for the prediction of issues, planning of maintenance visits, and the effective scheduling and coordination of resources such as technicians. To date, improved efficiencies have resulted in substantial cost savings for OKIN’s clients.
WHEN TECHNOLOGY
AND FM COLLIDE The combination of technology and FM is resulting in the industry taking a leap forward in its ability to effectively service clients. Of course, nothing can replace the power of people and the human touch, but improving efficiencies and having access to real-time data can change the way FM service provision is seen by clients.
The transparent nature of software such as DRIVE! will give the
opportunity for clients to see data and analysis in real-time, allowing for a different level of supplier-client conversation to take place.
“THE COMBINATION
OF TECHNOLOGY AND FM IS RESULTING IN THE INDUSTRY TAKING A LEAP FORWARD.”
With more proactive discussions taking place, rather than simply contemplating the reactive side of FM, clients will begin to perceive FM providers as partners rather than simply as their service provider. FMs can then work with clients to develop the best solutions, based on facts, delivered by in-depth data analysis. Ultimately, FMs should be starting from a place of ‘what is the best fit for the client’ rather than ‘one size fits all’.
CAFM is a powerful tool, yet it can’t stand alone. The FM industry must embrace change and innovate to remain competitive. As this becomes more common, we will see a shift in the industry, with technology enhancing the expertise already present within the sector.
www.ecsynergy.eu twitter.com/TomorrowsFM
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