Facility management (FM) is complex and requires a good knowledge of the company, its functioning and above all, requires a medium-term strategy, which has everything to displease most modern managers who want to be in the action.
Apart from the costs it generates, FM often does not interest many bosses. However, a good strategy in this field, adapted to the company, can allow costs and processes to be optimised in a very sensitive way (we often talk about 10-20% cost optimisation).
A second mistake is to believe that infrastructure management can be dealt with in isolation: this sector must be integrated into business processes and the real estate sector. Thirdly, believing that outsourcing FM services can solve all “problems” is a sweet illusion.
Every company should spend time defining the strategy, tactical approach and core business processes and review these elements on a regular basis (at least every 5 years).
For example, outsourcing should not be an end, but the result of a well thought-out and focused decision. If this is the preferred model, a great deal of knowledge about the ins and outs is required and the “unpredictable” must be anticipated with the help of experts …
Infrastructure management is often at the forefront of CEOs’ search for cost savings. So be it, but ‘cutting costs to cut costs’ is not worth it. A distinction must be made between basic and comfort services, essential services and those provided by “tradition”, etc.
This is a long process that requires tact and, above all, an independence of mind that often does not exist internally. FM is complex and its management often involves “false good ideas”. One must be careful not to make hasty decisions and not to use the wrong strategy. The use of external experts often offers a different view, even if the company naturally remains in control of its decisions.
In these difficult times, when the pressure on costs is very high, it is certainly not a luxury to take a step back and allow yourself a few thoughts.
Have fun, good thoughts, and a beautiful autumn