“Technology and FM: An Underdeveloped Relationship” white paper - DMA Group
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The Future of Facilities Management: Why the Industry Needs a Tech Transformation

The Future of Facilities Management: Why the Industry Needs a Tech Transformation

In an era where data is more abundant than ever—surpassing even the stars in our observable universe—the Facilities Management (FM) sector finds itself at a critical juncture. Technology, from IoT sensors to advanced analytics, offers FM an unprecedented ability to streamline operations, enhance service quality, and drive sustainability. Yet, despite these advancements, the FM industry remains surprisingly “behind the curve” in adopting smart technology.

DMA Group’s latest white paper, “Technology and FM: An Underdeveloped Relationship,” sheds light on this technology gap, offering insights into the sector’s unrealised potential, the need for upskilled talent, and the impact of COVID-19 on accelerating digital transformation. Here’s a glimpse into what this white paper uncovers.

1. Untapped Potential: Bridging the Technology Gap

Facilities Management is increasingly intertwined with technology, from smart devices to automation platforms. This integration promises a more proactive approach to building maintenance, pre-empting issues and achieving new levels of energy efficiency. According to DMA Group’s survey with i-FM, over two-thirds of FM professionals believe smart technologies can save time and money while improving service quality.

However, only 27% of respondents felt their organisations were fully leveraging smart technologies. Why the gap? Many FM companies cite prohibitive upfront costs, limited digital skills, and a preference for human interaction over digital tools. The result is an industry ready to embrace change but hindered by barriers that make transformation a slow process.

2. Training the Talent: Empowering the Workforce for Digital Success

The digital revolution has reshaped countless industries, creating new roles and requiring fresh skills. Facilities Management is no exception. The white paper reveals that while 73% of FM workers consider themselves “tech-savvy,” many lack the in-depth skills to integrate these tools into everyday processes. This skills gap is a pressing issue; 60% of survey respondents admitted they needed additional training to understand how smart technology could enhance their roles.

This gap presents a substantial opportunity for FM companies. By investing in upskilling initiatives, they can empower teams across departments—not just in IT—to embrace and maximise digital tools. Upskilling also aligns with an evolving industry mindset, where digital skills are as essential as people skills. For FM leaders, a focus on digital development isn’t just about enhancing efficiency but also about future-proofing their teams.

3. COVID-19: A Wake-Up Call for FM

The pandemic disrupted almost every sector, but FM was particularly affected due to its reliance on physical presence. As lockdowns hit, buildings lay empty, supply chains were strained, and FM professionals faced unprecedented challenges. However, these challenges also presented an opportunity to rethink the role of technology in building resilience.

DMA Group’s survey found that COVID-19 has been a catalyst, encouraging FM companies to adopt digital solutions that enhance business continuity. From remote monitoring to automated processes, technology offers a way for FM to weather future crises with greater agility. Yet, while some companies are embracing this shift, the white paper highlights that technology adoption in FM remains cautious. Moving forward, organisations that embrace a tech-driven approach to FM will find themselves better equipped to handle disruptions while delivering consistent service quality.

The Path Forward: Why Digital Transformation is Essential for FM

As the DMA Group white paper emphasises, the future of Facilities Management will be shaped by digital adoption. Companies that prioritise technology will unlock new efficiencies, improve customer satisfaction, and bolster their resilience against future challenges. DMA’s BiO® platform is one example of a transformative tool for FM, providing real-time data, connecting customers directly with on-site operators, and simplifying the complexities of property maintenance through automation.

Embracing technology is no longer optional for FM companies—it’s an essential step to staying relevant in a rapidly changing world. Download the full white paper to explore how your FM organisation can harness the power of digital transformation for a more efficient, resilient future.

Ready to dive deeper? Download DMA Group’s white paper, “Technology and FM: An Underdeveloped Relationship”, and discover how to make technology work for your organisation.

DMA Technology and FM Whitepaper