“History is bunk”: considerations on the future of FM

Abstract

Purpose

The last 25 years have seen facilities management established as an internationally recognised and valued function. However, the organisational changes that created the original demand for FM services are accelerating and will ensure that it will need to constantly adapt itself to new demands if it is to thrive. This article seeks to examine the nature of these forces and their likely impact on FM futures.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on a number of studies on flexible working carried out at UWE under the auspices of the “facilities innovation programme” with Johnson Controls.

Findings

The paper predicts a shift away from physical facilities as the focus for FM to a much more people‐centred logistics approach to supporting work across organisational networks.

Practical implications

The paper provides much food for thought for practising FMs about the shape of their future and the forces that will drive it.

Originality/value

By scanning across the whole landscape of FM the paper emphasises the complexity and fluidity of FM futures.

Citation

Grimshaw, B. (2007), "“History is bunk”: considerations on the future of FM", Facilities, Vol. 25 No. 11/12, pp. 411-417. https://doi.org/10.1108/02632770710822526