Facilities Management Practices Research Articles

Integrated agile facility management model for improving performance in construction projects

Facilities management (FM) has many challenges related to facilities requirements, unique services, and a need for actions to achieve customer/end-user/clients’ expectations. There is poor communication among stakeholders, weaknesses, inflexibility in business realities, and difficulty engaging decision-makers and other key partners. Adopting an agile philosophy in facilities management can improve the value and achieve quality and stakeholder satisfaction. The main objective of this article is to explore a guideline on applying agile philosophy in facilities management to achieve flexibility in management and improve performance. The papers published between 2000 and 2022 had been selected. Content analysis was used.to complement the qualitative findings. This article focuses on academic articles including subject areas: engineering, decision-making, and operations. The conceptual model is supported by current theories, literature and previous empirical studies from facilities management, agile philosophy, service quality, and stakeholder satisfaction. The major finding is the disclosure of a framework for evaluating agile philosophy in organizations by linking the agile mindset to facilities management practices. The results also revealed a conceptual framework for using agile philosophy in facilities management to achieve value and stakeholder satisfaction. This study is a review of theories and empirical studies. However, the previous studies were very limited and affected access to information widely. Therefore, it is preferable to conduct research and experimental studies on the application of agile philosophy in facilities management. Ultimately, using an agile philosophy in facilities management helps to achieve value and stakeholder satisfaction.

Application of Virtual Reality (VR) in Facility Management Competency-based Training (CBT) in the Era of Industrie 5.0

This case study investigates the implementation of Virtual Reality (VR) technology in facilities management Competency-Based Training (CBT) within one of Singapore’s leading facilities and township management companies. Traditionally, workplace training in facility management has relied heavily on lecture-based methods, often resulting in insufficient preparation and a high turnover rate among newly onboarded staff. To address this challenge, this study explores the conversion of training materials into VR-based courseware, enabling immersive and interactive learning experiences. Two groups of newly onboarded staff underwent either traditional lecture-based or VR training sessions. Results indicate that those trained using VR exhibited a better comprehension of the material and higher levels of motivation compared to their counterparts in the traditional lecture-based group. However, it was noted that VR training carries the risk of cybersickness, with some participants reporting symptoms such as dizziness. To mitigate this issue, insights from existing literature on cybersickness are incorporated to enhance future VR training materials. This paper studies the application of VR in Facilities Management Competency-based training within the discourse of Industrie 5.0, the latest evolution of industrial technology that emphasizes human-machine collaboration and smart technologies such as VR. By leveraging VR technology for training purposes, this initiative aligns with the principles of Industrie 5.0, fostering innovation and efficiency in facility management practices. Overall, this research underscores the potential of VR in revolutionizing training methodologies within the practices of facilities management while addressing associated challenges to ensure optimal learning outcomes.

Selection criteria for facility management practices: residents’ and building/site managers’ perspectives in urban transformation projects

PurposeThe facility management (FM) sector, which is developing rapidly, is making slower progress in Turkey compared to Europe and the USA. This paper aims to research the underlying issues leading to FM practices and offer insights into the implications of FM-related policies, especially for large urban transformation projects.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a mixed-methods research design and collected qualitative data through semi-structured interviews with building/site managers and quantitative data through structured surveys with residents. Forty-nine building/site managers and 660 residents participated in the interview and survey from Turkey’s North Ankara and Dikmen Valley urban transformation projects.FindingsThe FM by residents, performed by the managers selected among homeowners, was preferred to the professional FM in Turkey. Education level, age, homeownership and duration of living in the region were associated with selecting FM practices. Cost also had an important place among the selection criteria, and the standard view from the residents was that professional FM would cause a cost increase. However, interviews with building/site managers in North Ankara and Dikmen Valley Urban Transformation areas revealed that a significant part of the problem resulted from insufficient knowledge and experience in FM.Research limitations/implicationsWithin the scope of the research, two urban transformation projects in Ankara Province were selected, and the survey was limited to the North Ankara Entrance Urban Transformation Project and Dikmen Valley Urban Transformation Project areas. Although there is a need to improve the understanding of FM in all facilities, built environments and collective buildings, collective buildings in urban transformation areas due to several constraints, those other identified areas are postponed for future study. In addition, collective buildings located in transformation areas differ from others in discussing the social dimension and the impact of management.Social implicationsWithin the scope of the research, two urban transformation projects in Ankara Province were selected, and the survey was limited to the North Ankara Entrance Urban Transformation Project and Dikmen Valley Urban Transformation Project areas. Although there is a need to improve the understanding of FM in all facilities, due to several constraints built environments and collective buildings in urban transformation areas, are postponed for future study. In addition, collective buildings located in transformation areas differ from others in discussing the social dimension and the impact of management.Originality/valueThis study evaluates two different FM approaches: FM by residents and professional FM, implemented in Turkey and identifies the criteria for choosing the FM practice. In addition, both building/site managers and residents evaluate different perspectives on FM. This study is unique because it compares different FM practices in Turkey and the criteria for residents to prefer different FM practices.

Sustainable facilities management in the built environment: a bibliometric review

Purpose This study aims to review the status quo, current state of research, research hot themes and research gaps in sustainable facilities management (SFM) in the built environment (BE) through an extant literature review. Design/methodology/approach To map and analyze knowledge paths in the context of SFM research, a sequential explanatory mixed-method review involving bibliometric and content analysis was used to help identify current research trends, research hot themes and knowledge gaps. The Scopus search engine was used to find 169 relevant articles. For a better understanding of the literature accumulated, a bibliometric analysis was carried out by using VOSviewer to reveal current research themes, the status quo and current state of research as well as research gaps. Findings Through the literature review and content analysis, the current research themes on SFM revealed from the study include green building technologies, assessment methods of SFM, smart buildings and building information modeling. The research hot themes in SFM include smart buildings and green building technologies, green buildings (GB), architectural and building designs in the university sector, assessment methods in buildings and decision-making and the adoption of asset and facility management in the university sector. Indoor air pollution, intelligent buildings, climate change, maintenance, environmental management, facilities, historic preservation, environmental performance, energy management, etc. are the research gaps identified from the study, and these serve as potential areas for future research studies under SFM. It was recognized that facilities managers are increasingly involved with sustainability policies within their organizations and are developing sustainability agendas to keep up with the changing nature of the facilities management (FM) profession. Practical implications The findings of this study hold relevance to the FM practice, as the integration of SFM by facilities managers can lead to waste reduction, decreased operating expenses and reduced energy consumption. In addition, occupants of sustainable buildings experience improved conditions that contribute to better health and productivity, thus boosting their overall well-being. Consistent with the themes of smart buildings and green technologies, revealed to be the hot themes in the SFM research scope, properties with sustainable features can command higher rental rates and property values, appealing to a broader range of stakeholders. SFM practices in universities can aid in saving money from reduced facility operational costs and improve the image of institutions while creating better indoor environments for students and staff. The analyses of countries involved in research can open doors for the establishment of research groups and the development of collaboration between universities in different countries researching similar topics of interest. Originality/value The geographical scope of this study is not limited and, therefore, encourages broad applicability of the findings to the global sustainable BE.

Management practices in facilities providing HIV services to key populations in Kenya and Malawi: A descriptive analysis of management in community-based organizations.

HIV services for key populations (KP) at higher risk of HIV infection are often delivered by community-based organizations. To achieve HIV epidemic control, countries need to scale up HIV services for KP. Little is known about the management practices of community-based organizations delivering health services. We explored the management practices and facility characteristics of community-based health facilities providing HIV services to key populations as part of the LINKAGES program in Kenya and Malawi. We collected information on management practices from 45 facilities called drop-in centers (DICs) during US Government FY 2019, adapting the World Management Survey to the HIV community-based health service delivery context. We constructed management domain scores for each facility. We then analyzed the statistical correlations between management domains (performance monitoring, people management, financial management, and community engagement) and facility characteristics (e.g., number of staff, organization maturity, service scale) using ordinary least square models. The lowest mean management domain scores were found for people management in Kenya (38.3) and financial management in Malawi (25.7). The highest mean scores in both countries were for performance monitoring (80.9 in Kenya and 82.2 in Malawi). Within each management domain, there was significant variation across DICs, with the widest ranges in scores (0 to 100) observed for financial management and community involvement. The DIC characteristics we considered explained only a small proportion of the variation in management domain scores across DICs. Community-based health facilities providing HIV services to KP can achieve high levels of management in a context where they receive adequate levels of above-facility support and oversight-even if they deliver complex services, rely heavily on temporary workers and community volunteers, and face significant financial constraints. The variation in scores suggests that some facilities may require more above-facility support and oversight than others.

Enhancing FM digitalization strategies for shopping complexes amidst post-COVID-19: a case study analysis and improvement insights

PurposeThis study aims to improve the use of digitalization in facilities management (FM) for shopping complex facilities in the post-COVID-19 era. The resumption of economic activities, especially in shopping complexes, poses challenges for FM with throngs of shoppers. To tackle these challenges, enhanced and innovative FM practices are necessary.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a qualitative research approach, incorporating case studies, interviews, observations and documentation. It focused on super-regional shopping complexes in the Klang Valley, Malaysia, selecting two complexes for qualitative data collection. Supplementary data were gathered from various sources, including government policy publications, websites, books, journal papers and archival records.FindingsThe research provides valuable insights into FM innovations and the application of FM digitalization in shopping complexes after the COVID-19 pandemic. It also addresses challenges faced by FM teams during this period. Recommendations for implementing FM digitalization in super-regional shopping complexes post-COVID-19 include developing skilled personnel, defining appropriate work scopes, strategies and policies, using cost-effective software, and increasing occupant awareness. The involvement of outsourced service providers is advised, emphasizing their understanding of the organization’s business model and innovative approaches.Originality/valueThe findings offer new perspectives on the characteristics of FM digitalization in the commercial sector during business disruptions caused by the pandemic. The proposed strategies are grounded in real industry implementations, aiming to enhance the FM digitalization approach for improved business performance.

Measures to Improve Nurses' Pain Management

Pain is the most common medical issue that older people face in a long-term care facility. Registered nurses have a critical role in helping residents manage their pain. This research looked at measures to improve pain management practices in long-term care facilities in Ontario. The site for this research was a chosen long-term care facility in Ontario, Canada, a 160-bed nursing home for the elderly that provides various nursing and medical care services. Semi-structured focus group interviews lasting about an hour were done. This study's population consisted of 45 nurses. The researcher chose a sample of 25 registered nurses using a purposive sampling strategy. The data was reviewed using qualitative data analysis to detect recurring concerns. This research revealed the necessity of identifying measures to improve pain management and reinforcing good practices in long-term care homes; better pain management practices are necessary to manage pain in a long-term care home. This study demonstrated the importance of recognizing and overcoming measures to improve pain management and reinforce good practices in long-term care homes. Therefore, improved measures to improve pain management practices are required to manage pain in a long-term care home effectively. Education about safe pain management will help to prevent the undertreatment of pain and its negative consequences. The overall benefits of measures to improve pain management practices in long-term care homes expand nurses' clinical knowledge in the care of residents living in nursing homes.

OPERATIONAL READINESS AND ASSURANCE (OR&A) IN ASSET INTEGRITY: STRATEGIES FOR EXCELLENCE IN FACILITY MANAGEMENT

Operational readiness and assurance (OR&A) play a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity and reliability of assets within the oil and gas sector. This review explores methodologies and best practices aimed at achieving excellence in facility management, with a focus on meticulous operational readiness and assurance within the asset integrity framework. The review delves into the critical importance of OR&A in mitigating operational risks, enhancing safety, and maximizing asset performance throughout their lifecycle. It examines the key components of effective facility management, including maintenance planning, risk assessment, compliance management, and emergency preparedness. Furthermore, the review highlights the methodologies and strategies employed to ensure operational readiness and assurance, emphasizing the significance of proactive maintenance, robust inspection protocols, and data-driven decision-making. It discusses the role of advanced technologies such as predictive analytics, condition monitoring systems, and digital twins in enhancing operational efficiency and asset reliability. Moreover, the review underscores the importance of a holistic approach to facility management, encompassing people, processes, and technology. It examines case studies and industry examples that demonstrate successful implementation of OR&A strategies, showcasing tangible benefits such as improved uptime, reduced downtime, and optimized resource utilization. Overall, this review underscores the critical role of operational readiness and assurance in asset integrity management within the oil and gas sector. By adopting meticulous facility management practices and leveraging advanced technologies, organizations can enhance operational excellence, mitigate risks, and achieve sustainable performance across their asset portfolios.
 Keywords: OR&A, Asset Integrity, Strategies, Excellence, Facility Management.

Characterization of Low-Volume Meat Processing Wastewater and Impact of Facility Factors

Low-volume meat processing facilities often rely on decentralized wastewater treatment due to cost constraints and the lack of access to centralized treatment. Improved characterization of these facilities’ wastewater is crucial for meeting local groundwater discharge permits. This study also directly correlates treatment systems and facility characteristics to the results of the characterization. The total nitrogen (TN), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and phosphorus (P) reductions ranged from −15% to 83%, 43% to 95%, and −75% to 62%, respectively. Slaughtering and smoking were found to significantly increase nutrient concentrations. The average TN leaving the slaughterhouses and processing-only facilities was 519 mg/L-N and 154 mg/L-N, respectively. The average BOD produced by the slaughterhouses and processors was 3002 mg/L and 1660 mg/L, respectively. Filtration was found to reduce BOD, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and trace metals. Aeration in a treatment lagoon was found to significantly reduce BOD, COD, and N compounds. The results indicate that even simple decentralized wastewater treatment systems, combined with facility management practices, can substantially reduce permitted wastewater characteristics. The facility with the best BOD removal had an effluent value of 71.3 mg/L, representing a 96% reduction. The facility with the best TN removal had an effluent value of 20 mg/L, representing a 92% reduction prior to discharge.

Healthcare Waste Management Practices and Its Associated Factors Among Healthcare Workers in Health Facilities in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Introduction: Waste Management Practices have garnered growing interest in hospitals, research facilities, and laboratories over the past few years. However, there seems to be noticeable absence of a comprehensive understanding regarding research on waste management practices in health facilities among healthcare workers. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with healthcare waste management practices among healthcare workers in Ethiopia. Methods: The search was performed by using the Web of Science (WoS) database, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library. To assess the presence of publication bias, by using funnel plots, contour-enhanced funnel plots, trim and fill analysis, and Begg and Egger regression test. A significance level of P ⩽ .05 was used to indicate potential publication bias. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the I2 statistics. Results: From retrieved original studies, 15 studies were included in the meta-analysis with a total of n = 5260 healthcare workers. The pooled prevalence of waste management practices in Ethiopia was 52.86% (95% CI = 51.57, 54.15), with significant heterogeneity observed between studies ( I2 = 97.0%; P ⩽ .001). Sub-group analysis based on regional distribution in Ethiopia revealed that the highest prevalence of waste management practices was observed in Southern Nation and Nationalities and People’s Region with 61.9% (95% CI = 52.953, 64.449). Conclusions: This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the pooled prevalence of waste management practices among healthcare workers in Ethiopia was notably low. Training and the presence of guidelines were significantly associated with waste management practices. The healthcare facilities have improved access to and availability of policies related to waste management and the Ministry of Health promotes their use through various means, including training for healthcare professionals.

Vaccine storage and stock management practices in Vihiga County, Kenya.

Effective vaccine management is crucial to maintain vaccine potency. To achieve this, elements, such as temperature management, stock management, infrastructure, cold chain equipment and waste management, need to be properly implemented. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the vaccine storage and stock management practices in public health facilities within Vihiga County. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used. Eighty-six public health facilities were selected and one staff involved in handling vaccines from each facility participated in the study. The study utilised survey questionnaires and observational checklists to collect data. All facilities visited use standard vaccine requisition forms for ordering and receiving vaccines and physical stock counts are done in all facilities. The majority of immunising healthcare workers knew how to condition icepacks 88.4%; however, 57.0% did not know all the heat-, cold- and light-sensitive vaccines. Status of vaccine equipment, knowledge of healthcare workers and stock management practices were positively associated with vaccine cold chain management at 52.8%. Knowledge of vaccine handlers and stock management practices should be improved to enhance effective vaccine management. Besides, there is a need for the County Government of Vihiga to purchase sufficient WHO-recommended refrigerators.

The Issues and Challenges of Facility Management and Maintenance for Sports Complex Facilities in Malaysia

Sports complexes facilities in Malaysia are specialized venues built to accommodate a variety of sports and recreational activities. Malaysia, as a country with a rising interest in sports and a goal of building a healthy and active populace, has invested in the construction of several sport complex facilities around the country. Sports complexes are so important for promoting sports and recreation activities, it is important that they are managed effectively to ensure their long-term sustainability and optimal functionality. This is why the research study intend and aim an investigating the issues and challenges related to facility management and maintenance at Malaysian sports complexes through this study. The research study examines the problems faced by facility managers and maintenance teams caused by technical restrictions, human resource management, insufficient financing resources, or even substandard infrastructure. There are three objectives of this research study which are to identify the problems and issues in maintaining the sport complex facilities, to determine the challenges of FM roles in implementing, maintaining and improving the sports complex facilities and to suggest the strategies to improve FM in maintaining the sports complex facilities. A thorough examination of the literature, surveys and questionnaires were conducted to identify the major issues that facility management practices face, and recommendations for potential solutions were made as a result of this study. The findings of this study help to clarify the particular difficulties of FM in maintaining Malaysian sports complex facilities. In addition, to improving the overall user experience, resolving these problems will help the nation establish a healthy sports culture.

Implementation of Cutting-Edge Technologies in Facility Management Challenges and Opportunities in the Digital Era

This research explores the implementation of cutting-edge technologies in the field of facility management and investigates the associated challenges and opportunities in the current digital era. The study focuses on understanding how emerging technologies, such as Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Smart Building Systems, are integrated into facility management practices. Through a comprehensive analysis, the research aims to provide insights into the impact of these technologies on operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and overall facility performance. By identifying challenges and opportunities, the study contributes valuable recommendations for practitioners and decision-makers in adopting and maximizing the benefits of cutting-edge technologies in facility management.

The Relevance of Automation in the Facility Management of Selected High-Rise Buildings in Lagos, Nigeria

Operators (owners/facility managers) of high-rise buildings are continuously faced with the challenge of finding innovative means of controlling and managing the facilities of high-rise buildings. This is due to consistent change in the nature and functions of building systems. Meanwhile, the use of computerized systems affords building operators the tools and methods that will enhance facility management activities. This study examined the importance of automation to the facility management of high-rise buildings in developing countries, using the case of Nigeria. The study adopted a survey research approach, administering a structured questionnaire to 53 facility managers of identified commercial high-rise buildings in Ikoyi, Lagos Island, and Victoria Island in Nigeria. It also applied regression analysis in determining the significance of automation on facility management activities. The findings of the study revealed that security services are the most automated facility management activity. Results also showed that automation had a positive effect on facility management practice, with R square of 0.66. The study concluded that although automation is seldom used in carrying out facility management activities, it has a positive impact on facility management services, with 66% significance level on facility management activities. It then recommended that steps should be taken by all stakeholders to develop the practice of facility management and research, as well as facility management education.

Digital-Twin-Based Fire Safety Management Framework for Smart Buildings

In recent years, the implementation of digital twin (DT) technology has gained significant attention in various industries. However, the fire safety management (FSM) sector has been relatively slow in adopting this technology compared to other major industries. Therefore, this study aims to explore the limitations, opportunities, and challenges associated with adopting DT technology in the FSM sector and further develop a DT-based FSM framework towards smart facility management (FM). To achieve this objective, this research started by reviewing several promising DTs for FSM, including building information modeling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and augmented reality (AR). On this basis, a conceptual framework was synthesized in consideration of the benefits of each technology. A questionnaire was conducted for FM professionals to evaluate the proposed framework and identify the challenges of adopting DT in the FSM sector. The survey results reveal that the proposed framework can assist decision makers in obtaining comprehensive information about facilities’ communication among stakeholders. The survey results validate the potential of the adoption of DTs toward smart FM practices in FSM. The survey results provide insights into the perception of DT technology among FM practitioners and identify the current state of DT technology in the FSM sector, its expected benefits, and its potential challenges. The main barriers to adopting DTs in FSM are a lack of knowledge about DTs, their initial costs, user acceptance, difficulties in systems integration, education training costs, a lack of competence, development complexity, difficulties in data management, and a lack of trust in data security.

Analyzing the barriers for blockchain-enabled BIM adoption in facility management using best-worst method approach

PurposeBlockchain is a developing technology that affects numerous industries, including facility management (FM). Many barriers are associated with adopting blockchain-enabled building information modeling (BEBIM) in FM. This research aims to identify and prioritize the barriers to adopting BEBIM in FM.Design/methodology/approachTo address the knowledge gap, this study employs a two-phase methodology for evaluating the barriers to adopting BEBIM in FM. The first phase involves a comprehensive literature review identifying 14 barriers to BEBIM adoption. Using a Delphi approach, the identified barriers were categorized into 6 groups and finalized by 11 experts, adding 3 more barriers to the list. The best-worst method (BWM) determines the priority weights of identified barriers and sub-barriers in the second phase.FindingsThis study reveals that adopting BEBIM for FM in India faces significant hurdles. The most critical barriers are “limited collaboration” and “communication among stakeholders,” “legal constraints in certain jurisdictions” and “challenges in establishing trust and governance models.” To mitigate these barriers, stakeholders should foster collaboration and communication, develop efficient blockchain technology (BT) and establish a trust and governance model.Practical implicationsThis work underscores the importance of formulating effective strategies to overcome the identified barriers and emphasizes implications that can assist policymakers and industry stakeholders in achieving successful BEBIM adoption for improved FM practice.Originality/valueThe study provides valuable insights for policymakers, construction industry stakeholders and facility managers interested in leveraging this technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of FM practice in India.

Labor pain management practices and associated factors in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The pain that women experience during labor and childbirth is the central feature of parturition in humans. Despite improvement in the development of standards for pain assessment and treatment, labor pain is mostly ignored especially in low- and middle-income countries resulting in unmeasured suffering from childbirth for mothers. We aimed to provide a comprehensive estimation of the pooled magnitude and associated factors of labor pain management practices in Ethiopian public health facilities. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis statement. Electronic databases including Google Scholar, Web of Science, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), PubMed/MEDLINE, and Scopus were searched from database inception to June 30, 2023. The inclusion criteria were established prior to article review and follows the population, intervention, comparison and outcome criterions. We evaluated publication bias by means of funnel plots and Egger's test. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using I2 statistics. For each associated factors in meta-regressions, the pooled odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were extracted. A P value of 0.05 was used to determine the significance of the small study effect. Our search terms yielded 17 studies with 5735 participants. The pooled prevalence of labor pain management practices in Ethiopia was 45.73% (95% CI: 39.13, 52.32; I2 = 96.4). Having adequate knowledge regarding labor pain management (OR: 3.74; 95% CI: 2.74, 5.11; I2 = 53.8%), a favorable attitude toward labor pain management (OR: 2.90; 95% CI: 2.03, 4.14; I2 = 63.8%), availability of labor analgesics (OR: 3.23; 95% CI: 2.18, 4.79; I2 = 46.2%), and clinical experience of 10 or more years (OR: 3.45; 95% CI: 2.06, 5.78; I2 = 19.0%) were factors that were statistically associated with the use of labor pain management practices. We concluded that the routine practices of labor pain management by obstetric health providers in Ethiopia are still low. Therefore, it remains important to call for holistic and inclusive interventions targeting maternity health providers and hospital officials to update their long-standing practices. Registered in PROSPERO under protocol number CRD42023429140.

Analysis of FM involvement during project Lifecycle phases

Purpose This study aims to analyze the facilities managers’ involvement over the project life cycle phases (PLP), based on theoretical knowledge, consensus from empirical assessment of facilities managers and consultants’ practices. Design/methodology/approach A literature review was undertaken to determine the different tasks that facilities managers typically handle, identify project phases and their underlying activities in which facilities managers would be involved. This was followed by targeting a group of consultants to build a consensus, upon the identified involvement of facilities managers, over the PLP, while measuring the level of involvement from a representative group of facilities managers in Saudi Arabia. A matching between the perceptions and practice has been performed to serve as recommendations for future research on improving the practice in Saudi Arabia. Findings The involvement of facilities managers in the PLP is relatively low, according to the consultants’ perceptions. Consultants perceive that facilities managers should be involved in more professional activities, which would ultimately improve projects’ delivery to clients. Practical implications The involvement of facilities managers over the PLP ensures effective delivery of projects and reduces the multiplicity of challenges at the operation and maintenance phase. The viewing of facility managers’ involvement adds to the effectiveness of their role within the building industry. Originality/value This paper investigates the consultants’ perception of the involvement venues for facility managers to perform activities which are evaluated to be “mandatory,” “advantageous” or “not necessary.” The study reflects the state of facilities management practice, and the consensus of consultants toward the role of the facility managers through the PLP.

Critical success factors of heritage building maintenance management: An ISM-MICMAC analysis

To improve the functionality of heritage buildings, modern facility management (FM) practices have been increasingly adopted in heritage building maintenance management (HBMM). To achieve effective FM operations in HBMM, it is essential to identify the critical success factors (CSFs) and understand their relationships. Since this is an underexplored area, a study was initiated to establish a hierarchical structure of the CSFs and ascertain their influence on each other. Under the study, HBMM experts were invited to assess the interrelationships of the CSFs through an online survey. Then, an interpretative structural modeling (ISM) technique was used to establish the envisaged hierarchical structure. Finally, Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliqués à un Classement (MICMAC) analysis was used to classify the CSFs into four clusters based on their dependence and driving powers. From the ISM analysis, a hierarchical structure composed of seven levels was resulted, with the CSFs at the bottom of the hierarchy belonging to the independent categories with strong driving power but weak dependence power. Achieving these CSFs, which will drive the realization of other CSFs, warrant particular attention from HBMM practitioners. With an integrated ISM – MICMAC model developed, this study contributes to knowledge by establishing the hierarchy and interactions among the CSFs. The CSFs classification also serves as a guide for HBMM practitioners in understanding the operational dynamics of the CSFs and prioritizing their importance. The approach of this study, which is novel in the HBMM research domain, also forms a fertile foundation for future studies in this field.

Evaluation of the Applications of Contemporary Facilities Management in Nigeria

This study was aimed at evaluating the applications of contemporary Facilities Management in Nigeria in order to encourage massive adoption over traditional approach. Its objectives range from identifying the applications of both traditional and contemporary Facilities Management practices in Nigeria, to identifying the benefit and challenges of the Modern/contemporary practices over the older form of facility management. Traditional approach to facility management has been proved to be unsuitable and ineffective in the 21st century and at such this independent studies paper seeks to encourage the wide adoption of contemporary facilities management due to its prevailing benefits, added is numerous recommendations to challenges that it may also present since the practice is seemly new in Nigeria. Contemporary practices in facility management in Nigeria which encompasses software and mobile applications have been created to ease facility management in the modern age. Several of such application and mobile software’s were discussed and extensively discussed and un-discussed ones are available for further research.