Editorial

Citation

Pitt, M. (2008), "Editorial", Journal of Facilities Management, Vol. 6 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/jfm.2008.30806daa.001

Editorial

Article Type: Editorial From: Journal of Facilities Management, Volume 6, Issue 4

Thoughts on added value in an economic downturn

Depending upon your perspective we are either going through or entering difficult economic times. Budgets are likely to be squeezed and it will be more important than ever to be able to demonstrate the value of facilities management services.

FM is a strategically important component of the company’s ability to deliver its core operations and is therefore essential to enable the company to differentiate itself from its competitors. This is done by developing and implementing new and creative methods of delivering its current services, whilst combining other new services to enhance business operations. The best facilities managers have many new ideas but in order to fully exploit these opportunities the company needs resources and capability in the key areas of development. This requires strategic and total facilities management knowledge and core business knowledge combined to add value across its operations.

Some of the steps that might be taken are as follows:

1. 1.

   Re-develop the FM service to reflect changing requirements and develop a new total facilities management product.

2. 2.

   Through research develop a greater understanding of changing customer needs and adapt the FM services to reflect this.

3. 3.

   Explain and demonstrate for marketing purposes the link between total FM service provision and corporate profitability.

4. 4.

   Develop more efficient corporate strategic partnering relationships throughout the supply chain.

5. 5.

   Develop and implement an innovative service delivery system.

6. 6.

   Develop and implement innovation and creativity management.

7. 7.

   Develop a new and complimentary area of the business.

8. 8.

   Introduce new training within the organisation to improve efficiency.

9. 9.

   Developing new methods and approaches to holistic client requirements will lead to the potential for business growth.

Michael Pitt