Total Facilities Management (TFM) refers to a comprehensive approach to facilities management.  TFM integrates all aspects of running a building or facility under a single service provider. By consolidating maintenance services, TFM aims to simplify contract management, streamline processes, and save money. It’s a flexible and scalable solution that can be customized to meet an organization’s unique needs.

In TFM efficiency is paramount. TFM creates a total strategy for managing a facility. All facility-related services, including maintenance, security, cleaning, and occupancy management, are under one umbrella. This integration reduces the complexity of managing multiple contracts and vendors, making it easier for organizations to maintain their standards while improving efficiency.

TFM’s flexibility allows it to adapt to evolving needs. This adaptability comes from its comprehensive nature, which includes both hard and soft FM services. Hard FM services refer to physical, structural services like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical maintenance. In contrast, soft FM services involve non-technical maintenance like cleaning and landscaping. The single-provider model ensures that any changes in service demand, whether due to seasonal variations or expansion, are handled seamlessly without disruption.

The Role of Construction Management in Facilities Management

The connection between construction and facilities management is crucial to successful building projects. Construction management focuses on the planning, coordination, and execution of a building project, ensuring that it is completed within budget and on schedule. The decisions made during the construction phase directly impact facilities management later on.

In essence, construction management lays the groundwork for effective facilities management. The standards and practices established during construction affect the ease with which a facility can be maintained post-construction. For example, quality construction materials and techniques reduce the frequency of repairs and the costs associated with long-term upkeep.

Moreover, the construction phase determines the initial setup for space utilization, energy efficiency, and other critical operational aspects. A well-executed construction plan ensures that the facilities management team has fewer obstacles when managing the building, making day-to-day operations smoother and more cost-effective.

How Renovation Impacts Facility Management

The decisions made during the renovation of a building can have lasting implications on its long-term maintenance. Key areas where this can be seen is in material selection, system integration, and accessibility.

Material selection is vital; choosing durable, low-maintenance materials can significantly reduce future repair costs. For instance, using high-quality flooring materials can prevent frequent replacements, while selecting the right HVAC upgrades can lower energy use and maintenance needs.

System integration during renovations also play a critical role. Integrating systems like lighting, heating, and security during construction ensures compatibility and ease of maintenance. This integration should include modern Building Management Systems (BMS), which can automate and optimize various building operations.

Accessibility considerations made during renovations ensure that maintenance activities can be performed safely and efficiently. Features like accessible utility areas and designated maintenance spaces make it easier for facilities management teams to perform routine checks and repairs without disrupting daily operations.

Coordination Between Construction and Facilities Management Teams

Whether you’re building a new building or renovating an older one, coordination between construction and facilities management teams is essential.  TFM project managers help to ensure the seamless transition of a project from the construction phase to the operational phase. Open communication channels between the two teams can help identify and address potential issues early on, avoiding costly mistakes and delays in the future.

Effective coordination involves regular meetings, shared documentation, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. During construction phases, facilities management can provide insights into operational efficiencies, suggesting modifications that might not be apparent to construction teams. For example, insights into daily cleaning routines might influence the placement of utilities and storage areas.  Small adjustments can make big impacts on the efficiency of the tenants and maintenance workers.

This collaboration ensures that once any construction is complete, the facilities management team can step in without facing unforeseen challenges. This all-hands-on-deck approach helps achieve a smooth handover, allowing facilities to be occupied and operational without unnecessary delays.  This improves an owners bottom line.

Employing People in the AbilityOne Program

At Bona Fide, we believe that one way to enhance the effectiveness of TFM is by giving back to the community in the process.  We do this by employing people in the AbilityOne program. AbilityOne is a federal program that creates employment opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities. By incorporating AbilityOne workers into TFM teams, organizations can benefit from our comprehensive management service while also supporting a worthy cause.

Employing individuals through the AbilityOne program can enhance TFM by bringing a diverse range of skills and perspectives to the team. Our employees possess meticulous attention to detail and a strong commitment to their roles, leading to higher quality service delivery.

Moreover, participating in AbilityOne aligns with corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals, promoting inclusivity and providing meaningful employment opportunities. This not only strengthens the organization’s social outreach but also fosters a positive work environment where diversity and inclusion are valued.