Over the last two decades, Computer-Aided Facility Management, also known as CAFM, technology has certainly seen many changes. Despite its evolution, its primary function remains to help plan the operations and management of buildings and facilities.
CAFM is also referred to as ‘facility management software,’ ‘facilities management systems’ or more recently ‘integrated workplace management.’ Either way, the purpose of the tool hasn’t changed. What has developed over the years is the responsibility of the facility management profession. Buildings grow, sites grow and with that, there is a rising cost of assets, maintenance and time. Twenty years ago, tasks were allocated by paper, asset management was a paper-based checklist and filing cabinets grew bigger. However, emerging technologies began to allow some of these processes transfer to computer-based systems.
Over the last two decades, Computer-Aided Facility Management, also known as CAFM, technology has certainly seen many changes. Despite its evolution, its primary function remains to help plan the operations and management of buildings and facilities.
CAFM is also referred to as ‘facility management software,’ ‘facilities management systems’ or more recently ‘integrated workplace management.’ Either way, the purpose of the tool hasn’t changed. What has developed over the years is the responsibility of the facility management profession. Buildings grow, sites grow and with that, there is a rising cost of assets, maintenance and time. Twenty years ago, tasks were allocated by paper, asset management was a paper-based checklist and filing cabinets grew bigger. However, emerging technologies began to allow some of these processes transfer to computer-based systems.
Facilities managers now oversee reception desks, catering, cleaning, security, heating, grounds maintenance, repairs and more. Their role is to ensure the environments of their employers is safe, secure and operates smoothly and efficiently. One challenge they face though is being aware of, and ensuring their process are up to date with, legislative changes to the job well. Compliance is also a growing priority.
How to choose a CAFM system
There are many different CAFM systems out there, what once was a niche community of suppliers has certainly grown. This is due to providers recognising that they need to expand and develop their portfolio to meet the needs of facilities managers in today’s environment.
Each progression in CAFM software brings flexibility and a more customer-orientated approach towards service delivery. And although the CAFM market is growing, choosing the right provider comes down to the needs of your business.
Now comes the sales pitch!
Since 1995, Asckey has been supporting and developing CAFM systems. From supporting and upgrading the WIMS task management system within the NHS to developing our own fmfirst Estates CAFM software. We’ve been there growing our software to support the growing responsibilities of facilities managers.
Now, most facilities managers will already be using some form of CAFM software. However, it may not be supporting your business needs as much as it could do.
Information is the heart of CAFM. Asckey’s internally developed CAFM software solution, fmfirst Estates, has a data-centric approach helping facilities managers with data-driven decision-making. The feedback from our clients is that this approach helps to improve each element of their business.
fmfirst® Estates’ intuitive system design and functionality simplify user operation. The core of the application is the Task Management module strongly supported by the Asset Management module.
The Task Management module responds to the Help Desk / Service Portal and is used by trade staff and managers in the day-to-day management of task activity. The Asset Management module has powerful, user-friendly functionality. It closely monitors all relevant technical administrative and financial information including location and maintenance details for all site assets. These are just two of the various modules within fmfirst Estates. Further details about our software can be found on the datasheet.
Asckey appreciates that moving to a new CAFM system can be a complex and tiring process. We are passionate about helping our clients make that transition as swift and as easy as possible. This is why we also provide a Free of Charge system review to help you assess your existing and future requirements.
