Selecting the right Total Facilities Management (TFM) provider is a key decision for any organization. This is especially true for government agencies and contracting officers. The right provider can make operations smoother, cut costs, and boost the overall productivity of your organization. But how do you make this important choice?
How Do I Pick a Facility Management Company?
Do You Need Total Facilities Maintenance?
The first step in choosing a TFM provider is to understand what you need. These could be anything from cleaning and landscaping to IT and cybersecurity. While this may seems obvious, contacting companies that don’t provide even one essential service will ultimately be a waste of your time. Make a list of the essentials before searching for a provider.
Make a List of Facility Maintenance Companies
Start by doing some research. Of course, you will likely look for companies that have a good reputation. Google reviews and other online customer recommendations can be helpful. But keep in mind that Facilities Management is not like shopping on Amazon. Many companies may lack any reviews but still provide excellent services. As you make a list of companies, you may consider requesting a contact or letter of recommendation from a current client. Once you have a made list of potential providers, you can start comparing them.
Look at Their Total Company
A good TFM provider should offer a wide variety of services. This includes basic services like cleaning and maintenance, but also specialized services like energy management and IT support. A provider with a wide service range is more likely to meet all your needs and adapt to any changes in your requirements.
Check Their Tech and Tools
Modern technology and equipment are signs of a good TFM provider. Technologies like Computer-Aided Facilities Management (CAFM) systems can greatly improve efficiency and communication. Make sure the provider you choose uses the latest technology and equipment.
How Do You Check a Facility Management Company?
Look for Their Facility Maintenance Contracts
Experience and skills are important when checking a TFM provider. How long has the company been around? What kind of projects have they handled? A provider with experience with facilities similar to yours is more likely to deliver high-quality services. Companies do not often list all of their contracts on their website, but it is common to see example facilities that you can compare your property to.
Think About Their Customer Service
Good customer service is a key attribute of a reliable TFM provider. Communication should be easy and helpful from the first contact. What if there are unexpected situations with the property, billing or calendar questions? Ask potential providers about their customer service procedures and consider doing a trial run to see how they perform.
Look at Their Pricing
While cost shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision, it’s certainly an important one. Knowing your specific needs should help the company provide a detailed quote. Make sure you understand and agree on what’s included in the price. Be wary of providers that offer prices that seem too good to be true—they often are.
Check Their Sustainability Policies
Sustainability is increasingly important in facilities management. A good TFM provider should have policies in place to minimize their environmental impact. This could include energy efficient practices, waste reduction strategies, and the use of eco friendly products.
Total Facilities Management Advantages and Disadvantages
Picking the right Total Facilities Management provider is a key decision that can have a big impact on your organization’s efficiency and bottom line. By knowing your needs, doing your homework, and carefully checking their services and capabilities, you can find a provider that’s the perfect fit for your organization.
Looking for Unique Facility Management Services?
If you’re tired of trying to find a facility maintenance contractor that you can trust, look no further than Acuity. We pride ourselves in taking the initiative to ensure our facility maintenance services go above and beyond our clients expectations. If you want to learn more about our integrated facilities management services, please contact us HERE.
