Practical Facilities Tips, News & Advice.
Unplanned downtime is one of the most expensive problems a facility can face. According to ABB’s Value of Reliability report, two-thirds of companies deal with unplanned downtime at least once a month, at a median cost of $125,000 per hour. Electrical system failures are a leading contributor to that figure, yet the vast majority are […]
It’s here! It’s finally here! After brutal temps pummeled much of the country during winter, March 20th marks the first official day of spring. For facilities managers, the warmer weather provides opportunities to tackle tasks delayed during the cold and to give everything a nice refresh. However, the new season also poses some challenges like […]
Back to Basics is an article series that highlights important, but possibly overlooked, information facilities management professionals should know. Water pumps are among the most critical (and most underestimated) assets in modern facilities. They quietly support HVAC systems, boiler feed operations, domestic water supply, wastewater handling, cooling towers, irrigation, fire protection, and sanitation. When pumps operate […]
Restaurant operators are navigating one of the most challenging business environments in recent memory, marked by rising food and labor costs, staffing shortages, and heightened customer expectations. But even in this climate, many are finding efficiency and resilience through technology and automation behind the scenes and strengthening performance where it’s greatly needed—in the kitchen and […]
As many companies face ongoing power disruptions and other energy needs, the traditional real estate mantra of “location, location, location” is increasingly giving way to “location, resilience, reliability,” according to JLL’s new “Where Energy Meets Property” report. Energy availability and security is fast becoming a defining factor in commercial real estate (CRE) decision-making, with critical […]
The Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and the Green Schools National Network (GSNN) have announced the recipients of the 2026 Best of Green Schools Awards. The awards recognize 11 U.S. schools, districts, organizations, or individuals for advancing environmental stewardship, creating healthy learning environments, and promoting education for a sustainable future. “America’s students deserve […]
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love! In honor of the holiday, this infographic is being republished to highlight five things facilities managers love about their jobs. Whether you’re new to facilities management or a long-time industry vet, there’s a whole lot to appreciate about a rewarding career in FM.
Behind every high-performing building lies an unsung hero: the central plant. These mechanical nerve centers—clusters of chillers, boilers, pumps, and cooling towers—quietly provide heating and cooling to hospitals, airports, campuses, and other complex facilities. When everything hums along, hardly anyone gives them a second thought. But when a pump fails or a chiller trips, the […]
The buildings landscape is evolving at lightning speed, and staying ahead means more than just keeping the lights on. It requires a proactive approach, including embracing new technologies, adapting to regulatory changes, and reimagining traditional building operations. With innovation accelerating across every aspect of the built environment, facilities managers are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful […]
University campuses generate data from countless sources—A/V and lighting systems, HVAC equipment, cameras, and various other sensors. Yet many of these technologies operate in silos, forcing employees to monitor them individually across multiple platforms. The result is slower response times, added complexity, and limited visibility into overall campus operations. When data is unified, employees gain […]