The Future of Facilities Management

In the near future, facilities managers will have more advantages than ever before by utilizing The Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), smart building sensors and monitoring, and beacon technology. What might a facility using this technology look and function like?

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence powered by the Internet of Things (IoT) in facilities management increases the ability of managers to oversee details affecting day-to-day operations and decreases human error. Through the loT, critical tasks can be identified, prioritized, and then delivered to facility managers and staff via apps and smart consoles.

Sensors

Imagine a soap dispenser, air freshener, or paper towel dispenser that knows it's empty, a floor or toilet that knows it's dirty, a light bulb that knows it needs replacing, or a cleanroom that knows it's compromised. Sensor technology promises to make this come true so FM can focus on more strategic matters.

Robotics

Many FM jobs that humans do will soon be performed by robots or alongside humans. Imagine a roving security guard that can detect intruders and call the police or environmentally responsive sweepers and moppers programmed to meet the unique needs of cleanrooms and other critical environments 24/7. These are just a few of the jobs that robotics will streamline.

Biometrics

With so many people in and out of facilities, biometrics (including fingerprint/hand scans, iris/retina/facial recognition, voice verification, and signature identification) will streamline controlling access to your entire facility (including restricted areas) and replace key cards. This will enhance safety, security, and cleanliness.

Beacon Technology

Beacon tech will help deploy the right people and resources to the right place quickly. By knowing who is where, staff productivity and agility will be increased. Al might even come to play here, eliminating the need for a human dispatcher.