24 Jul Data Analytics: The Next Frontier in Facilities Management (FM) Strategy
In the 21st century, data analytics (DA) has risen as a source of differentiation and sustained success, enabling transformation across design, production, supply chain, marketing, and CRM. The FM sector is also deploying DA and Machine Learning (ML) to develop efficient operational and business strategies.
What is happening in the FM sector?
- Using predictive analytics to optimize workforce management strategy that ensure the right resource deployed at the right time and place
- Route optimization is used to improve efficiency of mobile FM services (Serco uses route optimization for maintenance and distribution teams; Mitie uses predictive modelling for workplace efficiency)
- Leveraging Computer Aided Facility Management (CAFM) to build global best practices for cost reduction and continuous improvements
- Benchmarking site-level unit costs to create more accurate bid models
- Applying real-time operational data to fortify strategic decision-making
- Generating insights on carbon footprint reduction and maintenance optimization through IoT and sensor-based DA
- Energy and Waste Analytics to reduce waste and energy consumption (Serco uses IoT data to analyse environmental factors, restroom cleanliness and bed occupancy; Compass uses DA to reduce waste, and energy and water consumption)
- ML to optimize HVAC systems basis weather conditions and attendee strength (Sodexo uses predictive analytics on HVAC systems)
- Improving speed and quality of customer care and helpdesk services through NLP and AI
What’s Needed?
Clean data is critical to the success of DA-driven business strategy; therefore, FM companies must formulate and fine-tune processes and strategies for quantification of facilities and maintenance of clean data.
What Next?
In a post-COVID world, it will be imperative that data analytics feeds into long-term and short-term business strategies of FM providers. DA will not only provide a competitive advantage but will also enhance operational efficiency and productivity.
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