Facility Management is a multi-departmental business evidence-based management discipline that focuses on efficiency efforts and long-term success. There are several core competencies concerning facility management. Some of these core competencies include communication, finance and business, human factors, leadership and strategy, operations and maintenance, quality, technology and property management. The preparation for a productive facility department takes a rigorous effort from the department’s leadership and staff, in addition to support from senior management and customers. A holistic approach that touches every aspect of the department’s functionality is imperatives to achieve the goal. Of particular importance to the plan are the following components:
Facility manager leads to create vision and results. The facility manager should adopt a leadership role within the department. The manager must devote time and energy to creating a vision for the organization and leading the team to the desired results.
Trust flow and department culture. The overall culture of the department must be one of trust at every level of the organization. Failure needs to be treated as a learning experience, rather than a cause for disciplinary actions.
Risk management: No individual, team, or management personnel within the facility department should forgo an action due to the potential for risk. Employees need to be taught how to examine and manage risk, as well as how to present options for alternatives and the consequences associated with each.
Communication Flow: Employees need to be encouraged to interact and share information with one another Open and honest dialogue environment is essential to the department’s success and long-term health.
Networks are valued and utilized. Having an extensive network of contacts in other facility management environments adds to the knowledge base of the entire department.
Costs management relative to value: The goal of the facility manager is to manage costs effectively, but staff needs to have the skills to evaluate costs relative to value provided to present a solid business case for overall impact on the corporate business objectives.Performance management is integral. Department should be fully informed about the goals and expectations for their individual performance. Planned, periodic performance review is an integral component of the department’s management plan, and should occur at all levels of the organization.
