Facility Management Software 101

Many things in life need to be managed for long-term success and sustainability, including facilities. Whether corporate structures, educational buildings, hotel units, or hospital systems, buildings need management. So, why not use facility management software to make things easier?

Facility management software (FMS) is a powerful tool for organizations seeking to streamline processes and enhance overall productivity. At its core, facility management software is a comprehensive digital solution designed to simplify and optimize equipment and systems management within a facility. This type of software is industry-agnostic and can benefit teams of managers and technicians managing facilities small and large.

Why is Facility Management Software Important?

Facility management software is pivotal for optimizing operations and reducing costs through streamlined processes like preventive maintenance and work order management. FMS centralizes data for informed decision-making, ensures compliance with regulations, and enhances communication among team members for better coordination and issue resolution. FMS is crucial in strengthening overall facility performance and efficiency by improving productivity, managing assets effectively, and minimizing downtime.

Quick Tip: Facility management systems are often called Computer-Aided Facility Management (CAFM) systems or Computer Maintenance Management Software (CMMS) systems. While all three terms are used interchangeably, Facility Management Software is the most robust, including features like interactive mapping and data reporting. 

Key Benefits of Facility Management Software

With a centralized, mobile system, facility managers and technicians can bring the following benefits to their facility and organization:

• Enhanced building functionality
• Increased equipment lifespans
• Improved team productivity
• Better team mobility
• Reduced operating costs
• Accelerated workflows 

Asset Management

Organizations often struggle to track and maintain their assets, including equipment efficiently. FMS provides a centralized platform for facility managers and technicians to monitor and manage assets. This prevents unnecessary downtime and helps in strategic decision-making regarding equipment maintenance, repair, or replacement.

Work Order and Maintenance Management

Facility management software can also include work order and maintenance management. Work order management encompasses creating, organizing, assigning, and tracking tasks or jobs within an organization. These software systems can also automate and schedule routine maintenance tasks, reducing the likelihood of equipment breakdowns and prolonging lifespans.

Collaboration and Communication

Implementation of facility management software also enhances collaboration and communication. By providing a centralized platform, FMS enables seamless communication among managers and technicians involved in facility management. This fosters collaboration, ensures transparency, and facilitates the exchange of critical information, contributing to a more synchronized and efficient operation.

Facility management software is vital for maintaining a well-organized and operational facility. An FMS handles everything from asset management to insights and reporting. As organizations in various industries deal with the challenges of modern operations, using this type of software is an intelligent step toward getting more done efficiently and saving money. It's all about increasing productivity, cutting costs, and ensuring everything runs smoothly for sustainable success.

Are you interested in learning about facility management software? Read more about the UNITY Solutions Suite here.