One of the most apparent outcomes of the pandemic is the change in the workforce. While some have become accustomed to taking advantage of income subsidy options and are now reluctant to return to work, many others have determined full-time onsite employment is not the best fit for their lifestyle. Either way, the result is a shortage of qualified workers.
Now layer in the fact that many of the most experienced workers are retiring with 50% of facilities personnel to retire in the next 10 years. The amount of historic knowledge in those who are exiting the workforce in conjunction with the drop in investing in trades has led to an increase in contract work coupled with a drop in option for specialty skills.
The demands for high skill labor in maintenance and reliability are incredible. Yet, an ever present and ever growing “skill gap” exists. If we don’t start becoming creative, our infrastructure could possibly collapse by the next generation. After all, electricity still needs to run, roads need to be paved and with more and more reliance on equipment, that needs to upkeep as well.
What Can We Do?
Facilities executives need to plan for a new world of facilities management where workplace safety is paramount and remote working becomes an increasingly commonplace operating model. The workplace must evolve to embrace new operating models. With organizations globally reviewing their workplace technology strategies, executives should use this opportunity to create a better experience for talent, reduce costs and build in better resiliency.
The key is to accelerate the move from paper-based to digital for critical processes. Many facilities management processes are still dependent for on-site personnel utilize paper-based systems. With a move towards more remote working, firms should speed up the digitization of crucial data – to empower building management by off-site teams. Many buildings are managed using rigid processes such as planned maintenance around calendar schedules. With building occupancy becoming increasingly in flux, firms need to ensure that that building services such as cleaning and maintenance can be easily updated based on demand.
How Do We Do That?
Focus in technology investments which bring a high ROI and a long shelf life. Rely on technology such as Maxpanda CMMS instead of people to manage your facilities management needs. Team communication and cost tracking is at the heart of your business. It’s these things that connect your entire organization and have the biggest impact on your culture and productivity. Book a free demo to see how it can help your organization bridge the gap.
