WHAT’S NEW? JUST 5% CONSIDERED


TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED Research released by Qube Global Software reveals that only a tiny proportion of the UK’s leading property and facilities management companies believe they are harnessing technology successfully.


As the technology landscape continues its rapid pace of change, the research suggests that a large proportion of property companies will be playing catch up, rather than taking up the mantle of technology trailblazer.


The survey of 960 real estate and FM professionals, conducted in autumn 2016, set out to discover where businesses see themselves on the journey to technological maturity, how they’re using the software already available to them and how they are preparing for future advancements in technology, including robots and AI (Artificial Intelligence).


While largely aware of the role technology can play in improving the way their businesses are run, the survey highlighted that only a small proportion believe they are currently harnessing it successfully. Only 5% of businesses see themselves as tech pacesetters, with a further 20% believing they are proficient in their use of technology.


IET URGE EMPLOYERS TO SUPPORT


CAREER RETURNERS A new guide published today by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and Prospect trade union, provides guidance to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) employers on how to attract a wider talent pool, including career returners.


Best practice tips for employers highlighted in the guide include: offering flexible working, reviewing policies and benefits; rethinking how and where they advertise jobs; explaining to recruitment agencies that they welcome returners; and developing a more inclusive and diverse internal culture.


Supporting the step back into STEM careers also highlights outdated perceptions that career breaks are obstacles and interruptions and points out that highly skilled and experienced engineers and other STEM professional wanting to return to the workplace are often side-lined in favour of candidates with continuous service and this is exacerbating the skills shortage.


Jeremy Watson, IET President, said: “The guide comes hot on the heels of the government’s new investment in schemes to help returners back into the workplace. As the engineering skills shortage continues to grow, our sector must move away from the misconception that career breaks get in the way and are a problem.


“Instead, STEM employers should view career breaks as periods of self-development and develop a culture that accommodates and values these breaks and the skills and


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Where the rapid advancement of technology is pulling some property businesses along with it, it appears to be leaving others behind, several respondents commented on how their businesses still rely on Excel spreadsheets to manage their portfolios.


For those who are already using real estate and FM solutions on a daily basis to run their business, automation, reporting/forecasting and compliance were the top three benefits, while difficulty around integration was the main shortfall, followed by mobile access and functionality.


Looking ahead to new technology, the survey revealed that less than 10% of FM professionals are currently using robots, despite the availability of the technology, particularly for cleaning processes.


John Cuppello, CEO of Qube Global Software, said: “Technology has transformed the role of property professionals across the industry over the last ten years, but this is just the beginning of the journey. A significant number of businesses in the sector have yet to fully embrace the technology currently available to them and are unprepared for further advancements just around the corner.”


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competence of those members of staff that are currently being overlooked and side-lined.”


Sue Ferns, Deputy General Secretary at Prospect, the union for professionals, said: “Engineering still faces significant challenges of gender segregation and, particularly at a time of skill shortages and gaps, needs to draw on all of the UK’s talents and expertise. Having a positive approach to engaging with returners can have significant business benefits as well as supporting individuals to achieve their full potential. As our new guidance shows, there are lots of small practical actions that can be taken to make this happen. Prospect is delighted to have partnered with the IET and looks forward to working together to make a positive difference.”


Lee Allen, Commercial Director at Jobsite said: “Female candidates and those returning from a career break are a great pool of untapped talent and have so much to offer the sector.


“It’s vitally important that employers make it clear through their recruitment advertising that they’re happy to consider returners on a level playing field with all other candidates. Skilled returners with lots of experience can play a vital role in reducing the skills shortage.”


Supporting the Step Back into STEM Careers has been published by the IET and Prospect trade union.


www.theiet.org TOMORROW’S FM | 07


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