Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) play a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of residents within a society. Their responsibilities span across a wide spectrum, ensuring everything from maintenance and security to community engagement. However, managing these multifaceted tasks requires special expertise and resources. This is where Facility Management Companies step in as indispensable allies to bolster the efficiency of RWAs in fulfilling their responsibilities. 

1. Streamlined Operations

RWAs juggle an array of responsibilities, from maintaining common areas to ensuring security, waste management and resolving maintenance issues. Facility Management Companies specialize in streamlining these operations with precision and efficiency, employing trained professionals with expertise in diverse areas. It eases the burden on RWAs and enables them to focus on strategic community-building initiatives. 

2. Comprehensive Maintenance

Facility Management Companies, by conducting regular inspections, oversee repairs and renovations and ensure that common areas such as parks, swimming pools, gyms and clubs are well-maintained. This proactive approach helps RWAs in addressing the issues before they escalate, fostering a pleasant living environment for the residents.

3. Security and Compliance

Ensuring the safety and security of the residents stands as a top priority. Facility Management Companies excel in implementing effective security protocols, such as surveillance systems, access control, visitor management systems and emergency response plans. Equipped with local regulatory knowledge and industry standards, they ensure that the society adheres to all necessary regulations. From compliance with environmental standards to adhering to safety norms and maintaining statutory records, they assist RWAs in mitigating the risk and safeguarding the interest of the residents.

4. Technological Advancements and Sustainability

In today’s era, sustainability is a crucial aspect of community living. Facility Management Companies stay abreast of technological advancements and sustainability initiatives, offering RWAs access to innovative solutions for efficient energy, automated maintenance systems, robust security measures and streamlined communication via the app. They aid in waste management and recycling programs, promoting a green and clean environment. This way, they support RWAs in aligning with the sustainability goals while offering modern technologies and streamlined services.

5. Event Management

RWAs often organize events and activities in the society to foster a sense of belongingness among the residents. Facility Management Companies support RWAs in organizing these events by managing facilities, coordinating with the vendors, handling logistics and ensuring a smooth execution. This collaboration elevates the residents’ experience, making community events more joyous and successful.

6. Enhanced Resident Satisfaction

Facility Management Companies significantly enhance residents’ experience by ensuring cleanliness and optimizing security measures. Timely and efficient handling of maintenance requests, swift issue resolution and consistent upkeep of common areas foster a positive environment, nurturing a sense of belongingness among the residents.

Conclusion

In summation, the synergy between RWAs and Facility Management Companies fosters a holistic environment within residential societies. Through their expertise, cost-effective strategies and resident-centric focus, facility management companies play a crucial role in empowering RWAs to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. This not only enhances the quality of life for the residents but also strengthens the foundation of a cohesive and thriving community. Thus, the role of facility management companies in aiding RWA’s is indispensable, creating a harmonious living environment where residents can truly feel at home.

The post The Role of Facility Management Companies in Helping RWAs do Their Jobs Better first appeared on Facility Management Company.

In today’s competitive world, property owners and builders are constantly looking for ways to increase the value of their property and attract potential buyers/tenants. For a Facility Management Company, it is vital to ensure that the society is prim and proper. While aesthetics and amenities play a crucial role, society improvement ideas that focus on enhancing the overall living experience can have a significant impact on it. Let’s explore the top ten facility management ideas that can help boost your property value:

1. Visitor Management System

Implementing a Visitor Management System in the society ensures enhanced security and peace of mind for the residents. It automates the visitor check-in process, vehicle entry/exit notification, domestic maids entry/exit notification and maintains a safe environment even when there are large number of visitors in the society. By implementing a Visitor Management System, the society can ensure a safe environment that appeals to potential buyers or tenants, thereby increasing the value of the property.

2. Training and Development

A Facility Manager, by investing in the training and development of society’s staff can improve the quality of service and increase residents’ satisfaction. Well-trained professionals can deliver quality service, effectively maintain the premises and ensure a high standard of living for the residents. Providing regular training sessions on customer service, conflict resolution and soft skills can empower the staff to deliver exceptional service which creates a positive living environment for the residents.

3. Client Service Cell

Having 24*7 Client Service Cell can streamline the compliant handling process as the App-based Complaint Management System allows residents to raise complaints anytime, anywhere and ensure prompt redressal of complaints. It improves the reputation of the residential society as the residents are willing to pay a premium for a well-managed society where they feel valued and satisfied.

4. Mobile Application

Incorporating a user-friendly mobile app allows residents to interact with the facility management team. It includes features such as club bookings, bill payments, service bookings etc. A mobile app provides accessibility and convenience which enhances the residents’ experience and boosts the value of the property.

5. Integrated Services

Partnering with a facility management team providing integrating services such as housekeeping, horticulture, security etc. can streamline the operations of the society by enhancing security, regular upkeep of common areas and society infrastructure. It ensures optimum utilization of resources, trained and verified staff and better service quality. Beautifully maintained garden and lush green lawn creates an inviting atmosphere for the residents and contribute to a healthier and relaxing living environment.

6. Recycling

Promoting sustainable practices within the society can have a positive impact on the environment while also boosting property value. Setting up of different bins for wet and dry waste, educating residents about waste segregation and collaborating with recycling agencies to ensure proper disposal and recycling of waste contribute to a greener environment and attract environmentally conscious residents/buyers.

7. Rainwater Harvesting Pits

Water scarcity is a growing concern for many societies. Constructing rainwater harvesting pits within the society can alleviate this problem as these pits will collect rainwater which can be used for landscaping/gardening/increasing the water table. It will reduce dependence on external water sources, promoting a sustainable and green environment.

8. Vermi-Compost Pits

By setting-up vermi-compost pits in the society, you can contribute to a clean and green environment as it not only reduces landfill waste but also produces nutrient-rich compost that can be used for society’s gardening purpose. It can promote sustainable living and adds value to the society.

9. Foster Community Engagement

Organizing regular events, workshops and social gatherings promotes a sense of belongingness among the residents as they can interact with each other which fosters a positive living environment.

10. Energy Efficient Measures

Implementing energy efficient measures throughout the society not only reduce electricity bills but also attract potential buyers and tenants. Installing solar panels in the society, using LED and motion sensor lights can minimize energy consumption and contributes to a more sustainable living environment.

Conclusion Facility Managers and Society Owners can boost the value of their property by incorporating these society improvement ideas. From implementing a visitor management system to embracing sustainability through recycling and water harvesting pits, these ideas not only contribute to a sought-after society but also provide an excellent living experience for the residents.

The post Top 10 Society Improvement Ideas to Boost Your Property Value first appeared on Facility Management Company.

The world is changing rapidly and sustainability has become a critical concern for individuals, businesses, and governments. As a Facility Manager, implementing Sustainable Facilities Management practices can help reduce energy consumption, decrease carbon footprint and create a positive brand image. Here, we will discuss how sustainable facilities management can help to achieve long-term energy efficiency and positive brand image.

A) Reduced Carbon Footprint:

Sustainable facilities management helps reduce the carbon footprint of buildings and facilities. An effective and sustainable facility management policy closely monitors energy waste and puts measures in place for reducing energy usage. These measures can include performing an energy audit, installing solar panels, using LED lights or compact fluorescent light bulbs, revamping buildings, adopting green building practices and running assets only when required. By reducing energy usage, Facility Managers can decrease carbon emissions and help protect the environment.

B) Cost Savings:

Sustainability brings financial benefits to buildings. Renewable energy resources used for green buildings are more affordable than fossil fuels, allowing facility managers to pay back upfront costs quickly. Green buildings are also valued higher than traditional ones, making them an excellent return on investment. Smart technology, such as occupancy sensors, motion sensors and ventilation systems can yield significant savings on electricity bills. Investing in telemetry systems to identify leaks can also help mitigate water consumption.

C) Waste Reduction:

Eco-friendly and sustainable facility management practices help reduce waste and water usage. Facility Managers can implement several strategies for reducing waste output such as vermicompost pits, rainwater harvesting pits and sensor-based low-flow aerators. Waste Management awareness programs can educate employees, clients and residents on the importance of waste management which ultimately helps in keeping the environment clean.

D) Conducive Work Environment:

Sustainability in buildings ensure high air quality, security and water standards. All these contribute to creating a comfortable working environment for employees, leading to increased productivity and benefits for the business. Employees want to work for a company that demonstrates corporate social responsibility and sustainable practices, making it easier for organizations committed to going green to recruit top talent and hold on to existing staff. Sustainability also increases the productivity of the employees and assets, reduces absenteeism and attracts good talent.

E) Enhanced Brand Reputation:

Reducing an organization’s impact on the environment is both a morally right thing to do and good business sense. Consistently good environmental performance can help boost brand reputation by demonstrating to clients, customers and employees that the organization cares about the planet. Sustainable facilities management ensures that organizations have a minimal, neutral, or even positive impact on the environment.

Conclusion:

Sustainable Facilities Management is no longer just a trendy word, it’s the need of the hour and is here to stay. Facility managers can implement sustainable practices to reduce energy consumption, decrease carbon footprint and create a positive brand image. Going Green and switching to Sustainable Facilities Management reduces the negative impact of the facilities on environment which not only benefits the planet but also yield positive outcomes in the long-run. Sustainable facilities management is a long journey, but by taking the right steps, Facility Managers can lead organizations on the way to a greener, healthier and more sustainable future.

The post 5 Key Benefits of Sustainable Facilities Management first appeared on Facility Management Company.

Creating a secure learning environment for students should be the overarching goal of any educational institution. This can be ensured, in part with good quality security systems and infrastructure. What plays an even bigger role, however, is the staff employed at schools.

Specifically, in the case of facility management, the staff deployed should not only be technically capable at their jobs but should also hail from a secure background. It is important to remain aware that the employees walking in every day are all potential risks to human security, electronic information and your institute’s reputation.

How much time and resources should you invest in hiring your facility management staff? They are indeed responsible for making day-day decisions for your building maintenance and also bring their own expertise to your institution. Their support is often what determines whether facilities are run efficiently and safely.

Most importantly, these staff members work amongst children, teaching staff, and other employees every single day. True for any business, risk prevention is always cheaper than damage control. Thus, hiring the right person for an FM job is equally important

Today, hiring and screening new employees involves many crucial steps, ones which are aimed at creating more secure educational institutions. Let’s take a closer look at these-

The evolution of hiring

Hiring has now become a multi-dimensional process. Recruiting employees for different facets of facility management has changed significantly over the years. Until a few decades back, maintenance work was simply categorized as “basic labour.”

Today, thanks to the integration of softwares in facility management, recruits must now be capable of handling a computer system and at times, skilled in basic coding too. For instance, heating and cooling systems in a boiler room are now operated via software, which recruits need to be well-versed with, in order to work in such spaces. 

Setting the right employee expectations

A job description is central to the hiring process as it sets out the skills and knowledge required by an individual to integrate into their role. It must include a list of formal duties and responsibilities, physical requirements and working conditions.

In order to include a background check at the recruitment stage itself, job descriptions today also include educational requirements, equipment knowledge, credentials and licensure. More importantly, this sets clear expectations between the employer and a potential employee.

Today, companies look beyond just skills when they hire new people. Facility managers in schools must be cognizant of the kind of people they are bringing into their teams. They typically hire across a vast range of roles, such as security guards, cleaning staff, technical workforce, and nannies.

These staff members must respect the institution of the school and be committed to the safety and security of school children and teachers. Therefore, the extra time and training that is now provided to newly recruited team members ultimately pays off.

A thorough review of references

Any applicant who is interested in joining an integrated facility management company must provide reliable references as part of their applications. This includes verification from those who have worked with the individual at their previous job and their previous employer. References provide a valuable second-person viewpoint on all the information that the applicant has included in their resume and interview. Each reference must be reviewed thoroughly before proceeding toward the next step in the hiring process.

A few applicants also choose to providecharacter references. These basically vouch for their interpersonal skills, their overall character and personality traits. People who have known the applicant for a long period of time and have interacted plenty are usually good choices for character references.

If an applicant’s professional and character references are both favourable, it naturally increases their chances of being selected. In other words, references are often a holistic representation of an individual and must be considered with care during the hiring process.

Going beyond a basic background check

As mentioned earlier, the thorough cross-checking of references goes a long way in the hiring process. However, in the case of people who are going to be working around children, it is extremely important that their criminal records are verified.

In case any potential employee has been convicted of a criminal offence in the past, then significant proof must be obtained regarding the clearing of their charges and the year the crime took place.

It also helps to periodically update these records even after someone has been hired. The school has every right to ask for regularly updated criminal records for their supporting staff members and it is the facility management company’s job to keep tabs on their immediate staff to provide this information.

Other important areas of employee verification include drug testing, address verifications and employment history.

Celebrating your staff

Once hiring is wrapped up successfully, it is important to ensure that the employees who have been brought into the company continue to stay on. Since facility management is so heavily team-driven, it is often demotivating to not receive the recognition one would like, as an individual employee. Staff members make an immense contribution to the efficient functioning of an entire school campus.

For this reason alone, they must be celebrated. Their efforts can be rewarded through employee recognition programmes. Members can be compensated in monetary terms, in the form of a yearly or quarterly bonus. They can also be given thoughtful gifts like flower bouquets, candles, and special books.

Such gestures create a lasting and positive employee-company relationship, and can ultimately help create better retention rates within the facility management company. Ultimately, this also ensures good quality of staffing in educational institutions and reliable members who choose to stay on with the school for years.

The post Adding Value To FM Hiring With A Holistic Background Check first appeared on Facility Management Company.