How Data is Driving Better Facilities Management Decision Making

Data is driving better decision making for facilities management teams. As the saying goes, ‘what gets measured, gets managed’. Leveraging AI, predictive analytics and real-time data, a wealth of information allows teams to adopt more proactive strategies, enhance their performance, and uncover efficiencies. The benefits of myriads of data are particularly impactful when it comes to commercial cleaning. With a direct improvement on hygiene, productivity and user satisfaction, we explore the ways data driven technology is modernising – and improving – FM.

Transformative Changes

The demands facing FM teams in today’s world are becoming increasingly complex. Staying on top of tight budgets, high staff turnover and stringent hygiene standards requires a strategic approach to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and both client and user satisfaction.

One of the most transformative changes within the FM market in recent years has been the introduction of data driven decision making. Within the built environment, countless sources of data are informing FM teams of the best way to operate their space.

Leveraging cloud-based software, automated technology and integrated operational and environmental IoT sensors, a data driven approach uses data gathered to guide decisions, optimize processes and enhance outcomes.

From sampling water for bacteria levels to maintaining a building’s energy efficiency, data is used to support informed decision making and to drive proactivity.

The Power of Data-Driven Decision Making in Cleaning Performance

When it comes to cleaning performance, data driven technology has proven an invaluable asset to FM and cleaning teams in almost any environment. By harnessing real-time data from a range of variables, cleaning operations becomes smarter, more efficient and boost the experience of the end user.

Taking the commercial washroom as an example, we take a look at how Smart cleaning and data driven decision making are critical for today’s FM, and the benefits they offer when it comes to managing washroom cleanliness.

Real-Time Cleaning Demands

Within commercial washrooms, ensuring hygiene and user satisfaction are maintained requires attention to detail. By implementing data-driven technology, vast amounts of data are gathered based on real time demands, and are made accessible to cleaning teams in simple, easy-to-action prompts.

With sensors and smart devices monitoring user numbers, detecting when consumable supplies are low, and even alerting staff to spills or maintenance issues, data ensures staff can take immediate action.

Proactive vs. Reactive Responses

Traditional cleaning schedules rely on predicted patterns of use, meaning washrooms often end up being either over- or under-serviced. Data driven decision making produces cleaning schedules based on actual usage patterns, shifting from a reactive to proactive approach to cleanliness.

By analysing trends and patterns in user numbers, FM teams can anticipate high-traffic periods and adjust cleaning schedules accordingly. This proactive approach means cleanliness is maintained and cleaning resources are optimized, in turn reducing unnecessary labour and supply costs.

Enhancing Performance and Empowering Teams

Data driven technology can empower cleaning teams by providing them with precise, actionable information. Instead of following a rigid schedule which they know isn’t perhaps accurate or realistic, they can prioritize tasks based on actual needs.

For example, if occupancy sensors indicate that a particular washroom or cubicle has had high usage, they can address it immediately. This targeted approach not only improves efficiency and effectiveness, but fosters a sense of empowerment, allowing cleaning staff to see the direct impact of their work on washroom conditions.

Uncovering Efficiencies

Efficiency is a top priority for FM teams. Data driven decision making highlights areas for improvement that perhaps weren’t previously a cause for concern, allowing teams to make the necessary changes to enhance efficiencies and improve service quality at the same time.

For example, data driven cleaning technology can highlight times of the day when washroom usage may unexpectedly peak, allowing teams to allocate enough resources, and scaling back during quieter periods. This ensures optimal use of manpower and supplies, reduced waste, cost savings and more hygienic spaces.

Beyond the Washroom

While the washroom is a prime example, the advantages of data driven decision making for FM extend to numerous commercial spaces. Retail spaces can ensure high-touch areas like lifts and doors are frequently sanitized, enhancing safety and customer experience. In busy offices, real-time data can guide the cleaning of meeting rooms, desks and common areas, based on patterns of usage.

By leveraging predictive analytics and real-time data, teams can adopt proactive cleaning strategies, enhance performance, and improve efficiencies. With a direct impact on hygiene, efficiency, and user satisfaction, embracing data driven technology is a necessity for modern FM.