The facility management market is expected to rise at an amazing CAGR of 8.2%. However, note that FMA (The International Facility Management Association) plays a key role in organizing and building the future of the facility management sector. If you are setting the facility management standards in any specific area, then IFMA universally governs it.
The IFMA provides much-needed guidance for professionals in this area. They provide standards to ensure structures are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. In this post, you will learn how IFMA supports superiority, why it is important, and how it works.
What is the International Facility Management Association?
The International Facility Management Association is the global professional body for facility management professionals. Formed in 1980, IFMA joins over 24,000 individuals from more than 130 nations. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, IFMA –International Facility Management Association provides resources, certifications (CFM and FMP), and networking features for people working in facility management.
Facility management, as defined by IFMA, is the organizational function that integrates people, places, and processes. It is meant to ensure that built infrastructures help people work effectively. This highlights the need for good facility management within an organization.
How Does IFMA Work?
IFMA works through programs and initiatives to improve facility management practices. Here’s how it typically works:
1. Standards Development
It deals with the subject of global standards that are ongoing and consistent as part of its brief. These standards also enable best practices for facility managers and ensure quality service. Facility managers who align with these business standards can improve their operations and validate client expectations.
2. Certification Programs
IFMA encourages professionals to take advantage of its several certification programs. CFM® — Certified Facility Manager FMP® — The CORE Competencies of FM SFP® – Sustainable Facilities Professional Under such circumstances, gaining knowledge and certifications plays a massive part in expanding career horizon in facility management. Being certified also gives your clients peace of mind.
3. Education and Training
IFMA offers various educational amenities. They provide webinars, courses online, and in-person workshops. By gaining continuous insights and learning, facility managers get to stay informed about their industry and technologies. One of the greatest membership benefits is that all members have free access to IFMA´s Knowledge Library, where a bunch of interesting and valuable articles, research studies, and case studies are kept.
4. Networking Opportunities
IFMA hosts the World Workplace Conference. This event is the world’s largest conference geared toward facility management pros. This will enable members to share insights, network, and learn from industry leaders. Local chapters also hold regional meetings of local clubs.
5. Research and Advocacy
IFMA conducts research on new issues related to facility or home management. It keeps education coordinators in the loop and helps service providers remain flexible as well. Additionally, IFMA acts as a government ambassador for the facility management profession. They are the key source that works as an intermediary unit between worldwide governments and organizations to advocate for its significance.
The Importance of IFMA
Quality and efficiency are a must in facility management. Here are some key reasons why IFMA is important:
1. Global Standards
FMA develops worldwide standards to ensure facility management practices are consistent. They assure safety, efficiency, and functionality. They can boost service delivery, especially for professionals committed to such rules.
2. Organizational Development
Success at IFMA is defined by continuous learning. IFMA grants facility managers an expansive catalog of skills through education and certification. This is an investment in professional growth for individuals and their organizations.
3. Resource Access
IFMA offers many vast resources that enable facility professionals to be equipped with the tools they need. IFMA offers a lot — from industry research to best practices. These resources will guide you through the challenging arena of facility management.
4. Networking & Collaborating
Like-minded professionals must have a connection with each other. IFMA creates a facility management fellowship. Not only does networking allow you to share knowledge, but it is an opportunity to learn from others and develop important professional connections.
Elevating the Profession: IFMA is key to taking facility management center stage. As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of facility management, IFMA comes to the frontline. They advocate for the profession to policymakers, business executives, and the community.
Key Components of Facility Excellence
Some vital elements are core to the success of any organization that provides facility management services. These elements guide facility managers in their daily operations and strategic planning:
1. Strategic Planning
Your facility management process must work around serving your organization’s objectives. A focused strategy enables a better allocation of resources. This alignment ensures that facilities are serving the business objectives well.
2. Sustainability Practices
In today’s world, sustainability is vital. Implementing sustainable practices reduces environmental impact. IFMA promotes green building standards and energy efficiency initiatives. By adopting these practices, you can ensure your facilities are eco-friendly and cost-effective.
3. Technology Integration
In modern facility management, technology has become an integral part of your work. Technology makes everything efficient, from building automation systems to data analytics. IFMA encouraged professionals to keep up with technology. This insight allows you to work towards making improvements for a better operational process.
4. Effective Communication
Facility management often requires strong communication skills. This effectively gets all vested parties in the room together (from facility managers to employees). IFMA offers resources to help facilities managers improve their communication. Good communication reduces miscommunications, creates a sense of trust to build cooperation, and ensures positive energy in your workspace.
5. Performance Measurement
Measuring performance is essential to ensuring facility excellence. Key performance indicators (KPIs) help you evaluate the effectiveness of your operations. IFMA provides guidance on establishing and monitoring KPIs. This practice leads to continuous improvement and organizational success.
Ensure IFMA Standard Facility Management
The International Facility Management Association is vital in shaping the facility management profession. By establishing global standards and promoting best practices, IFMA drives excellence in the industry. With certifications, education, and valuable resources, IFMA empowers professionals to succeed in their careers.
As a facility manager, engaging with IFMA can elevate your knowledge and skills. Partner with Citadel Property Management Corp.’s global community to stay informed, learn from experts, and connect with your peers. By working together, our facility management professionals can ensure that the built environments we create are efficient, sustainable, and supportive of the people who use them. Investing in facility management ultimately drives excellence in every aspect of your organization.
FAQs
1. What topics are covered in IFMA’s training programs?
IFMA’s training programs cover a wide range of topics, including sustainability, workplace design, building maintenance, energy management, and leadership skills.
2. How can I become certified through IFMA?
To earn an IFMA certification, you must meet the eligibility criteria, complete the required coursework, and pass an examination. Detailed steps are available on the IFMA website.
3. What industries does IFMA support?
IFMA supports professionals managing facilities in diverse industries, including corporate offices, healthcare, education, hospitality, manufacturing, government, and retail.
4. What are IFMA Councils?
IFMA Councils are specialized groups within the organization that focus on specific industries or areas of interest, such as healthcare, academic facilities, or sustainability.