When people talk about facility management solutions, they usually refer to facility management software. Facility management software gives facility managers the tools they need to measure, plan, report and manage an asset’s operations via a mobile or desktop-based application. This technology contains all facility information, such as floor plans, task lists, employee contact information, equipment, and supplier and vendor details. It serves as a nexus for all stakeholders and enables FM employees to monitor and control operations from a single screen.
It is a cornerstone of many firms’ operational management approach, particularly when it comes to workplace management. Also, it is not an easy option to invest in or adopt the correct facilities management software. There is a lot to think about when selecting new facilities management software, and the value of proper planning cannot be overstated.
If you’re new to facilities management software, here’s an overview of the most important things to look for.
Asset tracking
With asset tracking, you may construct a centralized database containing all information about your facility’s items. A CMMS can track information such as asset manufacturer, guarantee data, purchase date, current upkeep demands, and location.
Improving the accuracy of your asset records will benefit many other areas of your company. You can also automate asset lifecycle management. This will aid in keeping track of all asset-related facts from acquisition to decommissioning. Having this information can help you make key decisions, such as whether to repair or swap.
Task allocation
A task allocation tool enables facility managers to track the completion of work delegated to employees or outside contractors. It enables you to identify a specific problem and then assign a task to the person in charge of resolving it. This feature also shows when a task has been finished and allows you to choose between task categories.
Work Order Management
A work order management solution significantly decreases the amount of time you spend dealing with inquiries. Users can create work orders that are then synchronised across all PCs, cell phones, and tablets. There is real-time tracking, so the status of the work orders is clear. This level of efficiency is essential in today’s facility management. Look for a facilities management software package with a flexible work order feature.
Mobile friendly
Employees in facility management have never been confined to their desks. They require on-the-go access whether they are working from an office or out in the field! The best facilities management software is mobile-friendly. Facilities managers can efficiently allocate assignments and deadlines to field staff or contractors using such software.
Field staff can then receive notifications on their mobile phones (whether iOS or Android) and reply appropriately. This eliminates the need for face-to-face meetings and cuts approval time in half.
Reporting
Let’s face it: when it comes to forecasting, budgeting, or creating any type of report that relies on obtaining and analysing data, nothing beats just letting your CMMS do the job for you.
Entering a few dates and other essential factors into pre-built report sections allows you to gain insight into your spending, operations, and maintenance trends. Alternatively, many CMMS platforms allow you to create reports with your own KPIs for customised reporting.
Cloud-based
Almost all modern facility management solutions are hosted in the cloud. On-premise or outdated solutions are inefficient and expensive. Cloud-based solutions, on the other hand, are less expensive and more flexible. Maintenance specialists can offer you updates promptly using cloud-based software. Cloud-based property management software can also be accessed remotely at any time and from any location.
Facilitates teamwork and communication
In today’s more mobile and dynamic world, a facility management solution must promote cooperation and communication. Maintenance professionals and staff should be able to use the app to ask inquiries and receive rapid responses. It might save you a lot of time and confusion caused by misunderstandings.
Notifications
After all, you want to know that your requests have been received by personnel, therefore facilities management software should include an automated notification system. Notifications should be possible not just when people get a work request, but also when work orders are fulfilled.
Secure document storage
Your facilities are very valuable assets, and you want to know that any documentation, plans, and problems discovered in the estate are kept secure. Select facilities management software that encrypts data in transit and at rest and is kept on a cloud server in a country with the highest data standards.
After you’ve thoroughly evaluated the various facilities management software systems against the criteria listed above, it’s time to make an informed decision that will benefit you, your employees, and your company. Check each platform against your criteria, notes, criticisms, reviews, and positive checks to discover which options stand out.
