The Essential Role of IoT in FM: Why Invest and What to Gain

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, Facilities Management (FM) is embracing technological advancements to enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and service quality. One such transformative technology is the Internet of Things (IoT) or the use of sensors. This is playing a pivotal role in reshaping FM operations. So, what is the point of buying IoT for an FM business?

IoT Efficiency in FM

The primary point of investing in IoT for your FM business should be to streamline your operations and boost efficiency. IoT sensors and devices can provide real-time data on almost any aspect of your business, enabling you to make data-driven decisions, or even more powerful optimise resource allocation in real-time thereby reducing operational costs.

As an industry, we have all been trying to move away from input specifications, but now this is becoming more of a reality. In cleaning, demand led schedules on locations that require attention multiple times in a day can now be intelligently delivered and evidenced which translates to significant savings.

With IoT, you can monitor everything from footfall, usage and consumption to actual equipment, HVAC systems, lighting, and more. Not only ensuring they are operating at peak efficiency, but that you are only attending or servicing them when required.

IoT Predictive Maintenance in FM

The next evolution of this will is becoming apparent in predictive and preventative maintenance schedules, something that SFG20 are looking at to see how they can support.

IoT in FM enables predictive and proactive maintenance. By continuously monitoring the performance of equipment and systems, you can identify issues before they lead to costly breakdowns. This preventative approach not only reduces downtime but also cuts maintenance costs. Investing in IoT for FM ensures that your business is not just reacting to problems but actively preventing them.

IoT Enhanced Occupant Experience in FM

A key point of integrating IoT into FM is to enhance the occupant experience. IoT sensors can track occupancy, temperature, and lighting preferences, allowing you to create a more comfortable and productive environment for occupants. With links into BMS systems becoming more robust the value of intelligent automation is becoming more and more apparent.

Not only boosting satisfaction but also contributing to higher productivity and employee retention, which can be a significant advantage for your clients.

IoT Data in FM

IoT deployments start gathering data on your business and buildings at a rapid rate, but data has never been more available and move understood. Valuable insights are offered that drive informed decision-making, and the same data can be used to reinforce these as correct. he point of buying IoT for an FM business is to gain access to actionable data that helps you optimise operations, reduce energy consumption, and allocate resources more efficiently. This data-driven approach can result in significant cost savings and operational improvements.

You should always ensure that you have the right tools in place to understand this data and what it is showing you. Contextualised data is easy to understand and there is a real skill to delivering that data in a clear and easy format for you and your clients to benefit.

IoT, Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

In my opinion these 3 words should always be said together, Sustainability is a constantly growing concern and energy efficiency is becoming paramount in reducing your carbon impact. IoT is a key weapon in this fight. This technology allows you to monitor and automate energy use, which not only aligns with environmental goals but also leads to cost savings. Investing in IoT will ensure a greener future while simultaneously improving your bottom line.

Conclusion

The point of investing in IoT for an FM business is to unlock a range of benefits that improve operations, reduce costs, enhance occupant satisfaction, and promote sustainability. Which in turn will deliver a better service to your clients, and help you differentiate yourself from the competition.

The sharing of data with your clients, can only help them in achieving their goals, and offers a position where you can be pushing your clients to be better. Integrating IoT technology into your FM operations and embracing the tools that are now readily available and affordable will help your business to thrive in a data-driven, efficient, and environmentally conscious future.

So, when considering the point of buying IoT for your FM business, the answer is clear: it's about embracing progress, efficiency, and excellence in Facilities Management.If you don’t want to misstep on any investments you are considering making, the team at DJT Partners are always on hand to offer advice.