5 Ways AI Can Benefit Facilities Management

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a beneficial tool for facilities management (FM) teams, offering advantages such as saving money, reducing energy usage, improving productivity, and more. AI simulates human intelligence to perform tasks like visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and translation. Its integration into facilities management is already having a significant impact.

Artificial intelligence in facilities management

AI is influencing FM teams and organizations in several key ways:

1. Increase cost savings and decrease energy usage

AI is transforming how organizations manage costs in areas like energy, HVAC, security, and other systems through reinforcement learning (trial and error). AI algorithms analyze historical data to build neural networks that mimic human decision-making, improving building efficiency. For example, Google has used AI to monitor its data center, resulting in about 40% savings on cooling system power. AI systems continuously learn and improve, allowing humans to oversee and intervene when necessary, leading to smarter collaboration between humans and AI.

2. Focus on predictive maintenance

Organizations are shifting from preventative to predictive maintenance, which is more proactive. Predictive maintenance alerts teams when action is needed based on system health, rather than on a fixed schedule. This approach helps organizations intervene more effectively and cost-efficiently. Tools like IBM's Maximo APM use sensors and ERP software to analyze real-time and historical data, alerting teams before failures occur and optimizing performance. Implementing AI for maintenance has led to significant savings, reduced hours spent on maintenance, and fewer breakdowns.

3. Reduce the potential for human error

Human error can be costly in facilities management. AI algorithms help reduce this risk, though humans still make final decisions. AI is also valuable for space planning, helping organizations determine space needs based on employee numbers and usage data. Sensors can forecast space requirements by analyzing occupancy data. For example, OpenSensors helped a technology company optimize workspace management by using sensors to gather data, leading to cost savings, improved scheduling, and workspace redesign.

4. Streamline the integration of the IT, FM, and HR departments

As facilities management becomes more digitized, collaboration between IT, FM, and HR is increasingly important. AI can simplify systems integration, improve communication, cut costs, and break down barriers between departments. The merger of Stonehage and Fleming Family & Partners is an example where close collaboration between FM and HR led to better workplace outcomes. AI helps these departments work together more effectively by providing insights, streamlining communication, and enhancing collaboration.

5. Improve building security and protocol

AI enhances both cybersecurity and physical security. In cybersecurity, AI detects and prevents online threats with minimal human involvement by learning to identify good and bad behavior. It can also suggest solutions to potential threats, protecting sensitive data. For physical security, AI can augment existing systems. For example, Deloitte’s RoboCop in the Edge smart building in Amsterdam detects threats, notifies security guards, and monitors office areas, operating either remotely or automatically.

What might the future of facilities management look like with AI?

Opportunities for AI in facilities management are expanding rapidly. AI can increase productivity, efficiency, and even handle tasks like virtual office tours. Organizations can start small, such as by introducing an integrated workplace management system, and scale up as needed. AI can be tailored to fit the specific needs of any organization, making it a flexible tool for the future of facilities management.