1. IFM means general maintenance
Fact: It’s much more than equipment repair and general cleaning. It is a dynamic, constantly evolving industry where business models are being recalibrated to meet newer demands. IFM is an amalgamation of multiple services ranging from asset maintenance, safety, convenience to taking care of people in built environments. The operations are based on a well-defined process executed by tactical and strategic teams.
2. IFM is not data-driven
Fact: Data gathering, and analysis are key aspects without which IFM firms can neither optimise costs, bring process efficiency nor deliver the service excellence necessary to sustain and expand the business. Data on utility consumption, footfalls, meals, occupancy, staff deployment, quality management, inventory and more help teams take strategic decisions, add transparency, risk-proof the business and deliver intelligent solutions for clients.
3. IFM services are not significant in a post-COVID world
Fact: IFM firms have always silently worked in the background in key economic sectors. The pandemic, when high health safety and hygiene standards were imperative for business continuity in these sectors, only brought their role to the forefront. From being trusted service providers, IFM firms became client partners, aligning their already stringent standards with authority guidelines. Contrary to misconception, IFM assumes greater significance now as an increasing number of businesses have understood - what they earlier thought was ‘just maintenance’ - can bring, especially during global challenges. From RO150mn in 2019, the IFM market is expected to reach RO287mn by 2025.
4. It’s just additional cost
Fact: It is added value. By lending material and manpower to take care of a business’s non-core activities and achieve resource optimisation that adheres to contractual framework, IFM contributes to the growth ambitions of an organisation. The key here remains choosing the right IFM and services solutions partner who can deliver asset life-cycle value, long-term cost-efficiency and optimum worker welfare.
5. Achieving sustainability goals are not easy in IFM
Fact: IFM companies the world over are adopting measures to neutralise their environmental impact and create positive outcomes for the planet and for people while working to keep their business profitable. It may seem a difficult balance to strike but is not impossible. Challenges like little or no support from stakeholders and finding the right green partner remain. These, however, are overcome if there is real intent.
