Over the last few years, facility management has evolved to create seamless, efficient, and engaging residential and workplace experiences for occupants. Whether a corporate tech park, a commercial space, or a gated residential community, the right software can make or break operations.
But with so many platforms available, how do you choose the right one? Here’s a checklist of what truly matters in modern facility management software.
Essential Features in a facility management software
Following are some of the features that are essential for a modern facility management software.
All-in-one dashboard
Modern facility operations involve multiple teams, tasks, and sites. A centralized dashboard consolidates different functions, from service requests and asset tracking to staff scheduling and procurement, on one platform. A unified view simplifies decision-making, supports overview, and ensures that everyone works with the same data in real time.
Mobile accessibility
An intuitive mobile app is essential for real-time facility management software. A mobile-first approach empowers occupants to directly connect with the facility management teams, improving access, communication, and resident/tenant satisfaction.
Mobile-first access also empowers on-ground teams to raise issues, track tasks, communicate, and approve requests on the go.
Automation of daily workflows
Automation of repetitive tasks saves time and reduces the manual workload. It also ensures timely action and follow up, improving efficiency and streamlining. Smart automation saves time, reduces errors, and keeps operations running smoothly.
Look for software that automates service request assignment and tracking, maintenance scheduling, escalations and SLA (Service-Level Agreement) enforcement.
Customisable SLAs and escalation matrix
Not every property or facility operates the same way. Setting up expectations such as a specific level of service, including quality, availability, responsibilities, and performance metrics. Setting these guidelines is critical for managing user satisfaction along with ensuring accountability and transparency. Your platform should allow you to:
- Define custom SLAs
- Set up automated escalations based on urgency or delays
- Track performance against defined benchmarks
Asset and inventory tracking
The management of fixed and movable assets is the core requirement for a robust facility management platform. Real-time tracking helps reduce downtime and avoid unnecessary replacements. Hence, the platform you pick must offer:
- A comprehensive view of maintenance history
- Setting a maintenance schedule with regular reminders
- Inventory tracking
Also read, Why App-Based Facility Management Is the Future of Operations.
Multi-property management
FM companies usually manage multiple sites. Managing each property separately can be chaotic. Choose a platform that allows:
- Oversight of all communities from one login
- Cross-property analytics
- Consolidated approvals such as Purchase Requisitions and Purchase Orders.
- Role-based access for different locations
Communication Tools
Effective facility management isn’t just about fixing things. It’s about keeping people informed. Look for built-in tools for announcements and alerts, event notifications, in-app messages and notices. Integrated communication reduces confusion and builds trust with residents or tenants. Also read, Enhancing Communication & Transparency with Apartment Maintenance System.
Data security and compliance
With sensitive information being managed digitally, data privacy and compliance are non-negotiable. Hence, data security is non-negotiable. The facility management software must offer secure login protocols, store data on encrypted servers, provide detailed audit logs for transparency, and comply with local data protection regulations.
Analytics and reporting
Modern facility management software should go beyond operations. It should help managers make informed decisions based on data analytics. Essential features include data analysis tools like real-time dashboards and custom reports..
Scalability and integration
As your portfolio grows, so should your software. Look for platforms that can scale with your portfolio as well as integrate with existing systems like CRM, billing, and access control.
ANACITY – Facility management software
- A cloud-based centralised dashboard that consolidates facility management functions, from accounting to document repository, asset overview, income/expenditure reports, and workflow setting.
- An app-based approach for both managers and residents or employees.
- Automation of daily workflow like service requests with customisable SLAs and escalation matrix.
- Asset management with maintenance scheduling and reminders.
- Inventory tracking for checking purchases, stock levels, and consumption patterns. The optimisation of inventory management prevents shortages or misuse.
- Communication tools including forums, notices, polls and surveys.
- Data security and compliance with ISO/IEC 27001:2013 and SOC 2 Type 1 certifications.
- Quick and easy access to financial and asset reports for valuable data analysis.
- Multi-property dashboard to manage an entire portfolio
- ANACITY’s open architecture is integration-friendly. In addition, as a cloud-based platform, it is also scalable.
Check out our article Facility Management: How Centralisation is Changing the Game and How Digitalisation Improves Access and Efficiency.
If you want to know more about ANACITY facility management software or to schedule a free demo, get in touch with us at sales@anacity.com or visit www.anacity.com.