Retired Columnists

Long time contributor and facilities expert Tim Springer rejoins TFM to share his unusual perspective.

TFM Columnist Jim Elledge looks at the ins and outs of creating a maintenance manual.

For FM Frequency Columnist Jeff Crane, 2006 begins with more advice on keeping your building pressure right where it belongs.

TFM Columnist Jim Elledge follows up on a complex question with a simple answer.

With proper planning, outdoor landscapes featuring indigenous plants save time and money.

Revamping the boiler system to maximize BTUs helps FM Frequency Columnist Jeff Crane take down a moose.

Ever wonder what job placement ads are really saying when they describe a job? FM Frequency Columnist Jeff Crane cuts through the jargon and gets the real answers.

TFM Columnist Jim Elledge looks at record retrieval and destruction.

FM Frequency Columnist Jeff Crane thinks asking the right questions will help facilities avoid the confusion and destruction just witnessed on the Gulf Coast.

TFM Columnist Jim Elledge gives some recommendations on basic asset management products.

Crane's tongue-in-cheek perspective explains how to maintain facilities and lower budget costs at the same time. From the September 2005 issue.

TFM Columnist Jim Elledge points to some resources regarding staffing levels.

A look at a residential facility can offer some much needed perspective on running a commercial facility.

Crane offers some practical advice to keep your hardware from shutting down at the worst time.

In a “Walter Mitty” moment, Crane imagines what it would be like to handle certain facilities management responsibilities for the new administration.

For FM Frequency Columnist Jeff Crane, this year's relentless hurricane season underscores the importance of disaster planning.

TFM Columnist Jim Elledge takes another look at the debate over towels v. dryers.

Savoring the spirit of the 2004 Summer Olympics, Crane proposes some humorous events that will resonate with his peers.

As the political season heats up, Crane suggests new energy policies for any building in need of a tune up.

The crush of the media is overwhelming to Crane. How should he manage his case of information overload?

Crane hopes to help readers ensure facilities run smoothly during Mother Nature's most extreme season.

In order to function properly, life safety systems must be carefully maintained.

Crane's goal this month is to seek out and apply successful strategies.

While Crane admits outsourcing is a reality, he acknowledges there are ways to embrace it and at the same time advance your career.

An adventure outside of the comfort zone inspires Crane to respond to his own 12-step program.

Memories of snowy childhood winters give Crane new respect for those professionals in charge with keeping people safe, informed, and productive.

TFM Columnist Jim Elledge examines the advantages and disadvantages of these two options.

While in the transitional mode, Crane enjoys the luxury of a gracious exit.

If there is a high rate of churn, occupancy information is constantly changing and has an unfortunate habit of being left unreported. Because churn isn't likely to decrease in these type environments, keeping track of space is a big problem.

Electricity, as well as other "dangerous" elements in a facility should always be handled with safety in front of mind.

Crane thinks the best way to enjoy the festive season is to check troubled areas before heading out of town.

Think of all the places you'd go if you could take an adventure back in time!

A dash of facility management common sense turns challenges into triumphs during a family vacation for Jeff Crane.

Regular check ups aren't only good for people, they're good for buildings too, according to Jeff Crane.