This presentation from NFMT Baltimore revolves around the concept of embracing change and leveraging technology to enhance the effectiveness of facility management.

Mike Petrusky, host of The Facility Management Innovator Podcast, is joined by Michael Robbins of Eptura, and throughout the session, the pair emphasizes the rapid changes in workplace technology and management practices, particularly in response to recent global shifts such as the pandemic.

The presentation covers the role of facility managers and how they need to continually adapt and adopt new technologies to stay effective. Technologies like Integrated Workplace Management Systems (IWMS) and Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software are crucial tools for modern facility managers.

One key aspect is the importance of transitioning from reactive to proactive facility management. Proactive management, particularly in maintaining facilities and managing assets, can lead to significant cost savings and more effective operations. This approach requires facility managers to be well-versed in new technologies that can provide data-driven insights into facility operations.

Technology, however, is only part of the equation. The cultural and human aspects of facility management also matter. Understanding and adapting to the human side of business operations — considering both the facility management team and the users of the facilities — is crucial for success. This includes embracing a mentality of continuous improvement and openness to change, which are necessary to handle the increasing pace of technological advancements.

As the industry moves forward, mentorship programs will be needed to prepare the next generation of facility managers. These programs can help bridge the knowledge gap and prepare younger, tech-savvy generations who might be comfortable with technology but not necessarily with the intricacies of facility management.

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