The Middle East Facility Management Association (Mefma) stressed the need for the regional facility management (FM) industry to adopt next-generation technologies to achieve considerable savings on building operating costs and provide an enriched experience to the more tech-savvy generation of today.

Mefma is a non-profit association that provides a dedicated platform for FM professionals, wider construction industry stakeholders and owner associations.

The association made this statement following its recently concluded forum, the ‘Future Technology in the Facilities Management Industry,’ which was held recently at the Marina Hotel in Kuwait. The event was sponsored by MEFMA Members “The United Facilities Management" (UFM) company.

According to a study by Mefma, application of cutting-edge technologies will result in 20 to 25 per cent savings on building operating costs as well as leads to 25 to 30 per cent reduction in energy costs.

The association pointed out that computer-aided facility management (CAFM), building management systems, mobile solutions, sensors, cloud computing and remote-control systems, among others, provide the greatest potential for development and have the biggest impact on service delivery.

It further cited the benefits of some of the existing smart technologies in the market. If fully utilized, building management systems, for instance, would make a big difference in energy conservation efforts, while CAFM with an audit module, along with handhelds, leads to lower work volume and higher technician and helpdesk efficiency.

Remote monitoring results in savings as well because it provides time for regular inspections, while mobile technologies, sensors and cloud computing - when combined with data analysis - could further enhance potentials.

The recent Kuwait workshop, led by Mefma-certified trainer Tarik Aftat, the facilities manager at Oud Real Estate in Saudi Arabia, provided both learning and networking opportunities to all attendees.

Bader Salmeen, the facilities management director at UFM, a strategic corporate member of Mefma, was a key presenter during the event.

A panel discussion moderated by Salmeen also took place followed by an open room discussion. The panelists consisted of Engineer Ahmed Al-Eisa, Vice Chairman and CEO, Engineering Systems Group (ESG); Engineer Fnyees AlAjmi, Director of General Services, Paaet; Salah Mahdi Boftain, Facilities & Safety Manager, Alghanim Industries; and Traik Aftat.

By organizing the gathering, the association was fulfilling its mandate of providing a platform where stakeholders can discuss relevant industry issues, exchange experiences, and seek effective FM solutions to pressing challenges.

Ahmad Al Kandari, the vice chairman and chief executive at UFM, said: "Complex and intelligent structures require technology-driven, integrated FM services to ensure optimum use of facilities, smooth and efficient operations, and substantial savings at all levels."

The future FM sector in the Middle East will be determined by its capability to adopt technologies and will be measured by the efficiency of its delivery of services, said the top official.

"To remain highly competitive in the modern world, we should incorporate smart tools into traditional services to make them more efficient, achieve higher savings, properly maintain the facilities and expand margins for utility management companies and customers alike. The possibilities are endless, and the FM community should keep up with these dramatic changes brought on by ongoing technological innovations," he added.-TradeArabia News Service