By now, you've noticed our big news. After two decades, we've changed the name of a venerable industry magazine. Many of you reading this have probably been Maintenance Solutions readers for most of your careers. So why the change? What was the thinking that led us to Facility Maintenance Decisions as the new moniker?
In part, the new name is a reflection of the professional evolution you have been going through for quite some time. The "Solutions" in Maintenance Solutions was generally accurate in capturing a portion of what you bring to the table. Within the facility management realm, you obviously are perceived as "problem solvers."
But you've become more than that. You're also decision-makers — highly educated professionals who manage scores of people and are trusted keepers of the bottom line. And more often than not, the buck stops with you when it comes to specifying a fair share of the technology that keeps buildings humming. Beyond all that, these days you often occupy the same rarified space on the organizational chart with other facility executives.
The name change also results from the consolidation of responsibilities in many organizations in light of challenging financial conditions. As organizational structures have flattened and departments have combined, many of you have found yourselves with more authority — for example, to select the most appropriate products and technology for an expanding number of areas in their facilities.
While our name has changed, several important things have not. Our mission continues to be the leading resource for maintenance and engineering professionals. And as your roles and responsibilities evolve, rest assured we'll evolve right along with you in our efforts to serve your ever-changing information needs.
Dan Hounsell offers observations about trends in maintenance and engineering management and the evolving role of managers in facilities.
Agree? Disagree? Have something to say? We want to hear from you. Visit myfacilitiesnet.com/danhounsell, and "Start a Conversation."
