Tackling Challenges in Facility Management
The facility management industry is flourishing, yet it is facing many challenges as it grows, such as a changing labor force, skill shortages, increasing demand for innovative solutions, cyber threats, and so on.
Among these, workforce shortage emerges as a common issue recently. Let's break down the challenges, delve into this, and end up with a solution for effortless industry running.
1. The aging workforce and skills gaps
The aging facility management population is one of the vital issues and the most important workforce problem of 2015. While fewer young people were joining the sector, many experienced engineers and technicians were heading into retirement.
This age disparity caused a significant shortage of skilled personnel, especially in more specialized industries like HVAC, electrical, and plumbing repair.
2. Technological innovations and skills gaps
With the rapid development of technology in the facility management sector, the need for professionals with experience in new tools, software, and automated systems grew.
Building management systems (BMS), energy management technologies, and cloud-based solutions necessitated a workforce with specialized skills and training. Many current employees lack the necessary understanding to operate this complex technology, which creates a knowledge gap.
3. Pressures on Labor Costs
All facility management firms struggle with labor costs as they are under increasing pressure to provide affordable services of excellent quality. Facility management companies, being a labor-intensive industry, had to balance the need for well-qualified people with the need to stay profitable. Rising pay, particularly for qualified professionals, compounded these challenges.
4. Workplace safety
Though the facility management sector has historically had excellent workplace safety, it was nevertheless a major concern in 2015. Regular handling of hazardous chemicals, heavy machinery, and complex building systems by facility management personnel exposes them to accidents and injuries.
What We Can Do
Facility management companies can enhance their recruitment practices and hire and retain staff by focusing on career development opportunities, offering reasonable compensation, and promoting a positive work culture. While promoting a safe culture by imposing strict safety practices and organizing regular training programs would make the workplace safer, emphasizing diversity and inclusion would lead to greater innovation and participation.
The adoption of automation and outsourcing non-core functions allowed companies to manage labor costs while still providing quality services.
Together, the two strategies allowed facility management companies to establish a highly motivated, diverse, and skilled workforce able to perform to the needs of the changing industry.
Conclusion Addressing workforce challenges in the facility management industry in 2015 required a multifaceted approach to strategic planning, technology, and training with a focus on improving staff culture and diversity. Facility management companies could ensure they possess the personnel needed to be competitive in a rapidly evolving market by addressing the aging workforce, skills gaps, and shifting technological demands.
The facility management, by focusing on recruiting, retaining, and developing skilled and diverse staff, is well-positioned to address its workforce challenges and continue providing the services required in the coming years.