The facility manager (FM) is often regarded as the ideal client representative because their role is to optimally fulfil the interface between the planning, construction process and subsequent operation of the building. In detail, this means:
1. Holistic perspective
The FM understands both the technical and operational aspects of the building. This means that they are able to understand the long-term needs of the operators and ensure that the building functions optimally from an operational perspective. As the client representative, they have a comprehensive understanding of everything from planning and construction to subsequent operation.
2. Experience in dealing with building technology and infrastructure
An FM has comprehensive and detailed knowledge of building technology/TGA (heating, ventilation, cooling, electrical, security systems, etc.). This enables the FM to ensure that the right TGA and infrastructure are planned and installed during the construction phase. When selecting materials and systems, the FM provides assessments and recommendations to ensure a sustainable and smooth start to operations.
3. Process knowledge from operations
As the FM is familiar with daily operations, they have a practical understanding of which structural and technical solutions work best during ongoing operations. They are accustomed to quickly identifying challenges and finding pragmatic solutions. This means that economic compliance with operator responsibility is already integrated into the planning and construction process.
4. Optimisation of operating costs
FMs are familiar with the operating costs involved in the building life cycle. They know how to work in an energy-efficient and cost-optimised manner and have extensive experience in sustainable and long-term economical solutions. This expertise ensures that budgets are adhered to while at the same time guaranteeing the creation of a functional and maintenance-friendly property.
5. Communication bridge
Every construction project involves many stakeholders: the client, architects, engineers, contractors, suppliers, users, tenants (if applicable) and various service providers. FM acts as a bridge between all parties involved. It communicates the needs of the client and the project team, explains technical details in an understandable way and develops practical solutions that can be implemented by all parties involved.
6. Sustainability and life cycle costs
FM takes care of the long-term life cycle costs of property operation during construction-related facility management. FM thus ensures that the property can be operated sustainably both during the construction phase and in the subsequent utilisation phase. FM services include energy efficiency, ease of maintenance and the selection of suitable materials. This optimises operating costs and saves the user time and money.
7. Operator responsibility
Facility managers are familiar with the applicable safety, health and environmental regulations. They know which standards must be complied with in order to operate the building efficiently and safely in the future. This optimises compliance with operator responsibility for users and building owners.
8. Focus on usage requirements
The FM knows or works out the requirements of the building’s users. This ensures that these requirements are optimally taken into account in the design and implementation of the project. This leads to greater functionality of the property and improved user satisfaction.
Conclusion:
The FM has a valuable combination of practical experience in (technical) property management, the creation of cost and performance transparency, the communication of diverging interests in the construction project and a focus on sustainable property management. The FM is therefore ideally placed to represent the interests of the client during the construction phase and to ensure that the project is completed successfully and handed over to operation with a high level of user satisfaction.
Would you also like to benefit from the extensive experience of facility manager Peter Schmidt in construction projects? Get in touch!