Tag: commercial buildings

The Not-So-Hidden Cyber Risks in Commercial Real Estate

Editor’s note: FM Perspectives are industry op-eds. The views expressed are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect those of Facilities Management Advisor. As commercial real estate undergoes rapid digital transformation, driven by the need for greater sustainability, improved energy efficiency, and the evolving demands of hybrid work, the cybersecurity of building management systems (BMS) is becoming […]

U.S. Green Building Council Finalizes New LEED v5 Certification

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has officially launched LEED v5, the latest version of its flagship LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building certification program. The USGBC released the first draft of the highly anticipated update in late 2023. In 2024, the group held two public comment periods, receiving more than 7,000 […]

A CRE Readiness Plan as Companies Enforce Return-to-Office Policies

Office vacancy rates have climbed sharply in the wake of the pandemic as many firms downsized office space due to remote work. Nationally, the United States office vacancy rate hovered around the high teens by late 2023 (nearly 17%–20%, up from roughly 9% pre-pandemic)​. Major city centers have been hit especially hard. These elevated vacancies […]

The Business Case for Resilient Buildings in 2025

On the surface, 2025 has not shaped up to be an easy year for facilities managers. Economic uncertainty continues, and skilled labor shortages and budgetary restrictions are making it difficult to improve building performance. These challenges are especially prominent in older buildings with outdated systems and aging infrastructure. At the same time, external forces beyond […]

Sustainable Waste Solutions: Practical Strategies for Facilities Management

Facilities managers play a vital role in advancing sustainability and minimizing waste within commercial and industrial environments while managing tight budgets. As the demand for sustainable practices grows, managers must identify cost-effective waste management solutions that do not compromise financial stability. Innovative approaches can significantly enhance environmental stewardship while ensuring fiscal responsibility. According to the […]

The Future of the Buildings Industry: 5 Trends Shaping 2025 and Beyond

The commercial building management industry is poised for transformation as advanced technologies and data-driven insights redefine building management. Mastering these resources is more critical than ever, considering that 80% of buildings operating in cities today are expected to still exist in 2050. Facilities management is increasingly a strategic area for organizations. However, facilities managers, whether […]

Back to Basics: Electric Heater Safety in the Workplace

Back to Basics is an article series that highlights important but possibly overlooked information facilities management professionals should know.  Another winter, another story of electric space heaters being recalled or starting fires. Newer electric heaters include a host of precautionary safety measures, but older models might be carried into your facility by a chilly colleague who […]

Industry Outlook Highlights Interior Design Trends for 2025

The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) has released its 2025 Trends Outlook report, offering a comprehensive analysis of the evolving forces shaping the interior design landscape. Addressing changes in lifestyles, wellness, technology, the workforce, and the economy, the report explores a growing focus on creating environments that inspire joy, foster well-being, and harmonize sustainability […]

DOE Launches Tax Deduction Tools for Energy-Efficient Commercial Building Upgrades

Thinking about making energy upgrades at your facility? Try cashing in on tax deductions! The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has released the 179D Portal, which hosts two free tools to estimate potential federal tax deductions for installing eligible energy-efficient technologies in commercial buildings. Intended for commercial building owners, as well as designers of energy-efficient upgrades for […]

Is 3D Printing the Future of Facility Construction?

Editor’s note: FM Perspectives are industry op-eds. The views expressed are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect those of Facilities Management Advisor. The construction industry stands at a transformative juncture. After years of technological advancements in sectors such as energy, healthcare, and telecommunications, construction is finally getting the innovative lift it deserves. At the heart of […]