Computer Aided Facility Management Software

Computer aided facility management software is primarily a space planning tool that facility managers use to optimise the use of space and keep track of an organisation’s physical assets. This software can help companies to improve organisation, by keeping track of how their space is being used, who is using the space and what assets are being used in it. Computer aided facility management software often makes use of CAD applications. CAD enables facility managers to create and view visual floor plans of their facilities, enabling them to get a better view of the space available. Using the information provided by the application, facility managers can produce accurate reports which can be used for future benchmarking.

Computerised Maintenance Management Systems

Computer maintenance management systems are designed to track asset maintenance and the cost of maintenance. Using this application, facility managers can monitor the location of an organisation’s equipment and keep a detailed record of its maintenance history. CMMS are also used to track repair activity and predict the lifespan of assets, helping organisations to save money and avoid unexpected repair costs. Computer maintenance management systems are often used by businesses in the healthcare, IT and manufacturing sectors to help them maintain their equipment and minimise the risk of downtime.

Integrated Workplace Management Systems

Integrated workplace management systems are used for facility management and real estate management. IWMS provide a comprehensive solution, combining elements of CAFM software and CMMS with applications for real estate needs, project management and environmental sustainability.

Integrated workplace management systems are primarily designed for organisations with a number of facilities to manage. IWMS are probably the most popular choice out of the three applications, however it is worth bearing in mind that they do not offer the same specialist CAFM and CMMS applications as the individual software.

Differences Between the Applications

All three applications have overlapping qualities. The primary difference is the depth of the functional and features they offer. Integrated workplace management systems provides the most features and is therefore beneficial to businesses that face more challenges when it comes to facility management.

Conclusion

Developments in technology have meant that facility managers now have a wide range of tools they can use to make their work that little bit easier to manage. These tools include computer aided facility management software, computer maintenance management software and integrated workplace management systems. All three pieces of technology can benefit facility managers in many ways, helping them to reduce costs, increase efficiency and gain a better insight into how their facilities, space and assets are being optimised for use.

If you are currently in a position where you are considering purchasing facility management technology for your business, then you will need to choose the right application to suit your needs and requirements. In order to do this you will need to evaluate your organisation’s needs. Once you have done this you will be able to choose the most appropriate application based on the level of functionality required and the challenges faced by your business.