IFMA’s annual World Workplace show took place in Minneapolis last week, bringing together thousands of facility managers across the country to collaborate, innovate, learn new skills and discover leading industry products.
The three-day event covered topics ranging from artificial intelligence (AI), building resilience, winning over the C-suite, soft skills for facility managers and more. Nothing was off-limits, and FMs were sure to leave with an abundance of new information to bring back to their operations.
The Expo Hall was also bursting with industry knowledge this year as IFMA had live podcast tapings and additional educational sessions took place on the show floor. Attendees were encouraged to network during lunch hours. Meanwhile, the hall displayed leading product innovations ranging from space management software, AI, furniture, plumbing, roofing and more. Even FacilitiesNet’s very own Building Operating Management magazine was featured.
It was an unforgettable week, here are some key takeaways from the conference:
1.) AI is here to stay
AI has swept the nation, promsing individuals in all industries that it will make their lives easier. However, as the technology advances, there has been an increasing concern that it will replace humans. That isn’t the goal, though. AI is only supposed to enhance people’s positions, allowing them to focus on tasks that are more important. Vendors predict that AI will be heavily utilized in capturing reports and work orders, while also lending a hand in preventative maintenance. However, the next few years will require setting standards so that the technology doesn’t become obsolete.
2.) Facilities management is the hidden career
Despite being a noble career option, many people still don’t entirely grasp what facilities management actually is. IFMA president Michael V. Geary believes that attracting the next generation of facility managers will require a multi-faceted strategy that comes down to meeting them where they currently are: schools.
Geary believes that local outreach has the best outcomes, so exposing students to facilities management at a younger age helps them understand that it is a viable career option. Meanwhile, social media initiatives are also playing a role in enticing the next generation of FMs. Through the platforms, students can get a first-hand look on what a typical day looks like. This allows them to better plan for their futures.
The more people know about facilities management, the better it is for a company’s bottom line. Getting the industry out from behind the shadows will only have a positive impact all those involved.
3.) Soft skills create strong project results
Facilities management is largely seen as a solo endeavor when really, it’s a team sport. Curated communication develops organizations, especially as we become a more technological world. In their session, Lisa Vanderheyden and Gordon Rogers explain that words can be easily misinterpreted and that lets the message gets lost. Effective communication drives influence and promotes a better company culture. Curating the message for the intended audience helps preserve the relationship.
Mackenna Moralez is the associate editor of the facilities market and the host of the Facilities in Focus podcast.
