Full back issues of Facility Executive and Today's Facility Manager magazines are featured here. Publication articles are listed in a clickable Table of Contents. Facility Executive magazine covers all aspects of construction projects, modernization and ongoing operations for commercial buildings and facilities. Also view our Digital Issues.
Facility Executive December 2022 Issue (Volume 35, Number 6)
Facility management professionals have had to cope with significant change and transition these past few years. FMs have had to navigate handling hybrid and remote work, capital planning as a potential recession looms, and more while staying focused on keeping building occupants healthy and safe. Looking ahead, labor shortages, and a lack of skilled workers paired with more retirements, will be top of mind. In the midst of this winter’s “tridemic,” as COVID-19, RSV and flu cases have risen, the health and safety of buildings—particularly in regards to indoor air quality (IAQ) and cleaning protocols—will be a major focus in the new year.
Still, in spite of these challenges, facility management professionals have had to adapt before, and will rise to the occasion in the face of uncertainty. With increasing concerns, more facility managers are taking steps to improve their facilities through retrofits, new construction projects, or by changing their policies—ultimately improving operations and creating healthier spaces. This issue showcases how organizations have made an impact on buildings—whether by improving indoor air quality with new and improved ceilings and air conditioning units, or by implementing LED lighting controls. In addition, the FM 2023 Solutions section includes innovative products that can help support your goals in the new year.
The facility management industry is much more equipped to handle change after these past few years of transition, and there is so much potential for buildings to make significant improvements. Best of luck on the year ahead, and have a happy and healthy New Year!
jen@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: The Cost Of NOT Investing In IoT | To achieve FM goals, utilizing the Internet of Things is critical.
The HVAC Factor: Why Do HVAC Systems Lose Efficiency Over Time? | Effective preventative maintenance increases a HVAC system’s lifespan.
Developing A Plumbing Work Plan | Evaluate what steps to take to ensure plumbing systems are running efficiently and effectively.
Spotlight On FM 2023 Solutions | These innovative products will support facility management needs in the new year.
4 Steps To Maximize Employee Productivity And Safety | Manufacturers can take a people-centric approach to enhance productivity without sacrificing safety.
A Future That Puts Employees First | The workplace of the future is human-centric. Are you ready?
Getting “Schooled” In Indoor Air Quality | A charter school takes several measures to create a safe and healthy indoor environment for students and staff. Plus, how FMs can address IAQ concerns in 2023.
Energy Efficiency And Lighting Controls | How connected LED lighting controls can benefit small- to mid-sized businesses.
Balancing Open Design And Acoustic Privacy | See how a renovated bank enhanced its acoustic privacy with sliding doors.
How This Florida College Recovered From Hurricane Damage | The college needed flooding mitigation and a roof replacement after a devastating hurricane.
8 Roof Maintenance Tips For FMs | See what facility managers need to remember, including mistakes to avoid, for roof maintenance.
Focus On: HVAC | Fire Safety | Paints & Coatings
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive October 2022 Issue (Volume 35, Number 5)
Sustainability touches every part of the built environment, from lighting, energy, water usage, indoor air quality, building systems, and more.
Whether you’re in a large, mid-sized, or small company, or if you own or lease your space, everyone can do their part to work toward a more sustainable future, whether it’s working with partners to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, upgrading to more energy-efficient HVAC systems, or by going paperless and implementing recycling programs. It takes research and time to find the optimal solutions for your organizations, and it takes consistency to follow through on sustainability goals.
To help facility managers explore their eco-friendly options, this issue looks at current sustainability and renewable energy trends. In the face of unpredictable weather patterns, see how the built environment has continued to evolve to remain resilient. See how water features can work toward your water conservation goals, not against them. Reusing and recycling furniture, either through re-upholstery or through remanufacturing, is cost-effective and an opportunity for organizations to support their ESG goals.
As facility executives, you know how critical sustainability is to protect our people, the planet, and our infrastructure. Sustainable strategies need to constantly evolve to create safer, healthier, and more resilient buildings.
jen@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: Add Time To The Security Event Clock | Securing a building’s perimeter with sensors gives staff more time to react if a threat is detected.
The HVAC Factor: The Importance Of Indoor Air Quality Testing | Indoor air contaminants can be just as dangerous as outside pollution.
Maintaining A Resilient Building | An architect and engineer discuss the latest trends in building resiliency.
Powering A Greener Future | A closer look at the state of sustainability in 2022.
Sustainability Checklist For Hospitals | Pave the way for a sustainable future while supporting patients and staff.
How Community Solar Can Help Achieve ESG Goals | Community solar is leveraging government programs to incentivize large-scale solar application.
Managing Mass Notification | Combining mobile and on-site notification enhances facility safety.
The Benefits Of Sustainable Electrical Systems | Intelligent electrical systems offer the potential to significantly reduce energy consumption and costs.
Creating A Design That’s Built to Last | To increase their building’s lifespan during construction, FMs need to work closely with design teams.
Hospitality And Green Cleaning | See five ways FMs in hospitality can benefit from environmentally-friendly cleaning protocols.
Green Operations And Water Features | These features can facilitate water conservation.
Restoration And Re-upholstery | Facility managers can extend contract furniture lifecycles with proper care and re-upholstery.
Focus On: Signage & Wayfinding | Lighting | Groundskeeping
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive August 2022 Issue (Volume 35, Number 4)
Facility executives have a lot of their plates. You are responsible for creating a healthy work environment, ensuring all maintenance is taken care of so operations can run smoothly, investigating new solutions to boost productivity, and more. A facility manager is putting out fires left and right, making sure that building occupants are happy, comfortable, and well-taken care of.
Out of all your responsibilities—nothing is more important than keeping building occupants safe. In the past few months, armed intruders have gained access to schools, hospitals, malls, airports, and more. As a facility manager, you have to prepare for the worst and have a plan in place so that tragedy can be prevented. In our Trends pieces this month, we cover the seven major security trends, in addition to exploring what facility executives should consider while reevaluating their security measures in 2022.
Also, in this issue we cover how to mitigate the risk of CMMS systems from being compromised, fire and life considerations for construction projects, and important elements to consider when wiring your office space, allowing employees to charge their devices and stay connected.
As we grapple with major shifts—from how to boost security measures to the ever-changing landscape of the workplace in a post-pandemic world—we want to hear from you. Your stories, your triumphs, and what matters most to you. I look forward to hearing from you.
jen@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: Staying Ahead Of Cybersecurity Risks | Facility managers need to mitigate the risk of their software, IoT devices, or operational tech from being compromised.
The HVAC Factor: Why The Refrigerant Matters | Refrigerants should be used strategically to help facility managers reduce energy costs..
Selecting Dependable Obstruction Lights | For a building’s safety and compliance, facility managers need to explore options for obstruction lighting.
7 Trends Driven By Security And Identity Technology | Digital transformation and modernization are reshaping the security and identity landscape.
Planning For Protection | A security expert discusses some of the most important security concerns for facility managers.
How To Make Hospitality Customer Service Shine | To stand out from the competition, hospitality managers need to go the extra mile to make sure guests feel valued.
How To Prevent Slips, Trips, And Falls | Knowing where accidents may happen is the first step to reduce these risks.
Tackling Ponding Water On The Roof | If not addressed, ponding water can do significant damage to your roof and building.
(Fire And life) Safety First | A closer look at the fire and life safety considerations for construction, alteration, and demolition projects.
Power Considerations For Changing Commercial Spaces | All different workplaces need to have convenient access to power sources.
The Top 8 Questions To Ask Your Elevator Service Company | See if your elevator service company is serious about safety.
Obtaining An Uninterruptible Power Supply | Electric contractors have new opportunities to support commercial and industrial buildings that rely on nonstop power.
Focus On: Bird Control & Pest Management | Doors & Locks | HVAC | Restrooms & Plumbing
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive June 2022 Issue (Volume 35, Number 3)
For many facility management teams, the office is no longer what it once was: the lone home and hub of your workforce. As more companies shift to fully-remote or hybrid work, facility executives have reevaluated how they use office space, and what more can be done to encourage productivity and progress. As you’ll see in the Workplace trends feature, design trends are focused on establishing collaborative spaces, and how to utilize extra real estate in new, innovative ways to incentivize employees to make their return to the office.
In addition to workplace design, this issue will focus on a number of strategies for facility managers that address security, safety, and public health. As security concerns continue to grip the nation after a number of mass shootings, see how facility managers can minimize security risks. When natural disasters put lives and buildings at risk, as discussed in the Emergency Preparedness feature, it’s critical that facilities have an actionable disaster plan in place. As society recovers from the impacts of a worldwide pandemic, the need for a consistent, effective cleaning strategy continues to be top-of-mind as discussed in the Services and Maintenance feature.
Facility executives have to wear many hats—navigating energy management, capital planning, risk assessments, and so much more—and they are the root of a building’s success or failure. Diving into the world of facility management for the first time, I look forward to exploring new solutions and sharing new innovations with you. Please share your stories, challenges, and successes with me at the email below, I look forward to hearing from you!
jen@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: Smart Buildings Get Better Connected | Connecting wireless, battery-free sensors to IT infrastructures makes it easier than ever to learn more about your buildings.
The HVAC Factor: Heading Off Heat Stress | Keep workers safe and efficient with fans and fabric ductwork.
The Future Of The Cleaning Industry | As we enter a new era, it’s important to analyze your role and reevaluate your cleaning strategy.
Long View On Workplace Design | Hybrid work is here to stay—here’s how facility managers can refresh their office spaces to reflect this new normal.
Understanding The Four Phases Of Emergency Management | How uniform guidelines help facilities and communities manage natural disasters safely and efficiently.
Creating A Highly Sensitive Design | Empathy and compassion were key elements in the design of a state-of-the-art pediatric facility.
Minimizing Risks In The “Most At-Risk” Building | Risk assessments should be conducted to ensure a space is safe and secure for occupants.
Energy Efficiency And Healthier Facilities | Greener buildings lead to ESG gains, cost cuts, and healthier workplaces.
Gearing Up For Green Transportation | Facility executives should plan now for a future of electric vehicles.
4 Data-Driven Steps To Support Capital Planning | Streamline facility planning for public agencies with these strategies.
OSHA, Heat Exposure And Worker Safety | Building owners and operators need an effective cooling strategy to protect workers from excessive heat exposure.
Focus On: Lighting | Windows & Skylights | Cleaning | Facility Management Software | Fire Systems & Equipment | Exterior Cladding
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive April 2022 Issue (Volume 35, Number 2)
Facilities professionals are able to juggle multiple tasks—across seemingly disparate tasks to the outside observer. Energy management, security planning, health and wellness, and resource conservation—to name a few—are cornerstones for you and your teams who keep buildings and sites operating every day. Through experience, education, and innate talent, successful facility managers navigate a variety of challenges and opportunities to provide places for productivity to thrive.
In this issue, there are articles to assist in your team’s daily and long-term successes. The lighting stories showcased on the cover discuss long-term opportunities with LEDs, and a lighting retrofit project that is part of a school district’s ongoing energy improvement. Water conservation concerns are not going away: you’ll find insights on saving water across outdoor landscapes, as well as in restrooms.
Inside facilities, flooring is ubiquitous. The article in this issue describes how working with your flooring contractor will open up opportunities for safety and productivity.
Technology is now ubiquitous for facility managers, providing opportunity for those able to identify how adopting new tools and processes will improve their long-term outcomes. Read this issue’s Tech And FM column on supply chain digitization, along with observations on the latest in surveillance cameras and data center trends and see if these developments are on your opportunity horizon.
acosgrove@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: The Supply Chain Crisis And FM Strategies | As long-held practices are challenged, digitizing supplies and parts acquisition presents opportunity.
The HVAC Factor: Achieving Sustainable IAQ In Facilities | Deliver healthier indoor air with an eye on energy efficiency.
Five Ways To Conserve Water For Landscapes | Take a look around facility grounds to identify water efficiency strategies. Plus, restrooms offer conservation opportunities.
Get Ready For LEDs 2.0 | As the first generation of LED fixtures come due for replacement, facilities can boost the benefits.
Long View On Lighting Retrofits | Missouri school district works with energy solutions provider across two decades for improved learning environment and energy profile.
2022 Readers’ Choice Awards | This annual recognition from Facility Executive is based on interest shown by readers over the previous year.
Healthier Indoor Air Through O&M | Evaluation of existing HVAC equipment and its operation goes a long way toward improving IAQ.
Flexible Focus Shapes New School | In central Ohio, the alma mater of legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus planned its new high school for the way of the future.
Trends In Surveillance Cameras | Here’s a look at capabilities and considerations for this security equipment.
Three Data Center Predictions For 2022 | Uptime Institute Intelligence highlighted leading trends impacting facility management.
What Role Does Flooring Play In Your Facilities? | Inviting a professional flooring contractor to evaluate how a facility is used daily helps to identify ideal flooring products.
Focus On: Facility Management Software | Fire Systems & Equipment | Exterior Cladding
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive February 2022 Issue (Volume 35, Number 1)
Whether you’ve worked in facilities for three years or thirty, it’s safe to say that since 2020 nearly every facility management team has encountered a significant change to the demands of the job. Every industry has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, while priorities and specific issues of concern vary across sectors. A common thread, however, is the focus on preventing the spread of disease. Facilities teams responded to the public health threat in real-time, introducing and adjusting HVAC, cleaning, and myriad other protocols. As facilities professionals, protecting the building is also a crucial task—including creating an environment where people and process will thrive as well as maintaining systems that may have been near-dormant at some point in the past two years.
Still, the more things change, the more they stay the same. For instance, compliance is central to the facility management role and one that’s certainly not new. But could your compliance management use a new approach? The “Tech And FM” column asks you to ask yourself six questions to find out. And protecting the facility with a strong building envelope is not a new concern, but one that is evolving with increases in extreme weather events as well as developments in technology. Read about roofing as it relates to repair options, building codes, and drones for inspections. The stories in this issue look at a range of facility management areas, some with a look at potential changes (the recycling infrastructure in the U.S., or building performance standards on a federal level).
Share your stories, challenges, and successes! Send a note to me at the email below.
acosgrove@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
The HVAC Factor: Commissioning For Facilities O&M Boost | Enhance HVAC quality assurance with commissioning services.
Tech And FM: A Paradigm Shift In Compliance | There’s always room for improvement to manage the multiple areas of facility compliance.
Recycling Takes New Direction | Revamp of this waste issue is the focus of new U.S. EPA initiative.
Next Steps In Cyber Secure Lighting | Connected lighting delivers benefits—and cybersecurity concerns.
Roof Repair: Recover or Replace? | Evaluate the roof condition to ensure most effective approach.
Building Codes And The Right Roofing | Adhering to the latest codes will enhance the value of a structure.
Maximizing Drones For Roof Inspections | Understand capabilities and limitations to collect the best information on facility conditions.
Energy Standards To Perform | Building performance standards are expected to get a boost through new White House initiative.
Water Management Plans For Healthcare | Is your facility prepared for the new rules to combat Legionella?
Facilities That Are Leading The Way | With myriad improvements and upgrades from facilities leaders, we’ve highlighted a selection of notable projects from 2021.
Design Directions For The Office | With change a constant since 2020, solid trends are emerging for designing and managing offices.
Focus On: Security, Ceilings & Walls, and Leak Detection
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive December 2021 Issue (Volume 34, Number 6)
It’s been a year of continued transition and adjustment in the facilities profession, and as 2021 comes to a close the Facility Executive team wishes all of our readers health and success in the next year. All industry sectors have been impacted by the pandemic, and as COVID-19 cases are rising once more at the turn of the year, perhaps you and your team are implementing protocols put in place in Spring 2020. Or, have you discovered additional solutions to introduce into facilities operations and maintenance for health and comfort? HVAC systems are a focus in this issue, as this is a central point of concern in buildings of all types. Indoor air quality is discussed in “Better IAQ Through Operations,” and “Cooling The Future” presents a look at a report concerned with the significant increase in air conditioning demand around the world. And, “The HVAC Factor” describes an option to extending the life of equipment with timing, costs, and occupant health in mind.
In other coverage, we look at safety programs and planning. In “Facility Safety Is A 360° Task,” read our conversation with Jim Pauley, President and CEO of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). He shares his thoughts on how facility executives might shore up safety in 2022. In “Planning For Winter Storms,” see the moves made by a higher education FM department in Texas based on lessons learned from the early 2021 winter storm there.
And, as you are looking toward the new year, check out the FM SOLUTIONS 2022 section. The products and services showcased may be just what your facility needs. Happy New Year!
acosgrove@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
The HVAC Factor: Restore To Extend Equipment Life | When new systems are not an option, HVAC restoration offers an alternate route.
Tech And FM: Optimize With Digital Twin Technology | Use digital twins of your facilities to achieve key outcomes.
FM Solutions 2022 | Check out these products and services designed to help facilities teams excel in the new year.
Restrooms & Sustainability | From “Choosing A High-Efficiency Toilet,” to “A Look At Sustainable Hand Drying,” there are numerous greener choices for restrooms.
Cooling The Future | Demand for air conditioning is rising. What actions have been taken, and what solutions are on the horizon?
Better IAQ Through Operations | Monitoring air quality goes far to improve occupant health.
Facility Safety Is A 360° Task | The National Fire Protection Association (NPFA) marks 125 years of protecting people and property.
Planning For Winter Storms | In Texas, the Alamos Colleges District builds resilience across its facilities after 2021 winter storm.
Design For Modern Manufacturing | A diamond maker chooses streamlined design and energy efficiency for Oregon lab.
Do More With Warehouse Lighting | Connected, LED lighting systems contribute to a better work environment.
Focus On: HVAC & Indoor Air Quality, Furniture, and Roofing
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive October 2021 Issue (Volume 34, Number 5)
With 2022 around the corner, it’s the time when many of us take stock of the current year. What goals have we met; which initiatives are in progress; and what are you putting to the top of the list for the coming year? Facilities, with all their moving parts, are perpetual works in progress. Whether this past year has been a focus on maintaining smooth operations or one of significant changes (with the impact of the pandemic still strong), the approaching new year causes many to reflect on what’s next.
This issue’s focus on sustainability looks at several areas where facilities leaders and their teams can evolve their buildings, sites, and overall operations. With extreme weather threatening more locations (and more often), reinforcing current structures and systems to better withstand these and other disruptive events are a top concern at the end of 2021. The article on net zero energy includes points to consider if reducing your organization’s energy footprint is a priority. And, a holistic view of HVAC, green cleaning, and sustainability overall is included in this issue. Meanwhile, facilities maintenance tasks impacted by the pandemic as well as traditional forces are covered in Tech and FM, as well as the articles on remote building inspections and backup power selection.
As you read through this edition of Facility Executive and would like to share your own projects and lessons learned, send a note to the e-mail address below with a brief overview. Enjoy the rest of the fall season, as we all look ahead to the coming new year!
acosgrove@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: The Benefits Of Digitizing Maintenance Functions | When facilities maintenance data is readily available, efficiencies improve across the organization.
The HVAC Factor: Low Occupancy? Look At Variable Speed HVAC |Striking the balance to bring in ample outside air while maintaining energy goals can be a challenge.
Embracing Green Cleaning Products, Processes | A cleaning program to support sustainability and human health will have long-term impact.
Growth In Zero Energy Buildings | Annual report from New Buildings Institute shows significant growth of net zero energy facilities since 2018.
Delivering Disaster-Resilient Buildings | Building commissioning is a key piece in protecting sites against the impact of destructive events.
Rerouting Furniture From Landfill | For furnishings no longer useful, donating these items to nonprofits or other organizations gives a second life.
Remote Virtual Inspections For Facilities | With demand increasing, an ANSI standard is in development.
Sustaining Efforts In Sustainability | Here are strategies for making green goals work for organizations of all shapes and sizes.
Level Up Against Power Outages | Tailor backup power equipment to the needs of the site.
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive August 2021 Issue (Volume 34, Number 4)
Te important focus of health and safety in facilities reached a pinnacle during 2021, and rightly so. With the pandemic evolving, facilities teams and their partners have been busy learning and adapting to ensure procedures across the board are effective in slowing the spread of COVID-19. As a facilities professional you know this focus is here to stay, and that it goes beyond COVID at this juncture. Prevention and mitigation of all illness-causing threats will be central to facilities operations for the foreseeable future. With that in mind, for this issue we asked the Executive Director of the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), Patty Olinger, to share overarching lessons learned in the cleaning industry in light of the pandemic.
Meanwhile, facility security has been impacted by COVID-19 in the form of the new requirements or voluntary tightening on people’s comings and goings into a building and around a site. And security threats not related to the pandemic are everpresent. Essential Security Trends For FMs identifies five trends impacting physical security solutions for facilities (and there are certainly more). In Cyber Security For Building Networks, we present a talk with a cyber security expert seeking to name actions facility executives could take to protect OT (operational technology) from this front and center threat.
And, with cooler weather approaching for many facilities, Get Roofs Ready For Winter and Pest Management Prep For Winter offer practical tips on these tasks universal to facility management.
As you read through this issue, we invite you to send your experiences or questions about the topics covered in these pages to me at the e-mail address below. Enjoy the waning days of summer!
acosgrove@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: Mobile Work Management Tools | If your facilities team has yet to go mobile, here are four reasons to make the move.
The HVAC Factor: Follow The Science To Combat COVID-19 | Protecting facility occupants requires staying informed on effective indoor air quality and other strategies.
Get Roofs Ready For Winter | Farewell to summer, and hello to autumn roof maintenance.
Essential Security Trends For FMs | For commonly seen risks to emerging threats, solutions for facilities teams are evolving and maturing.
Cyber Security For Building Networks | Facility management has an expanding role in protecting operational technology.
Microgrids For Facility Power | Look to ESCOs when evaluating feasibility of this distributed energy resource for your site.
Hospitality That Floors Guests | In Round Rock, TX, Kalahari Resorts & Conventions opens amid COVID-19 challenges.
Controlling Retail Maintenance Costs | Keep sites in top shape and operating costs in check.
Cleaning And COVID-19 | As facilities maintenance moves forward, here are a few lessons learned when it comes to cleaning.
Pest Management Prep For Winter | As seasonal changes approach, take a look around facilities to prevent pest infestation.
Builders Hardware That Makes The Grade | Choose door hardware for performance needs using BHMA’s new Certified Product Directory.
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive June 2021 Issue (Volume 34, Number 3)
How different do your facilities look compared to one year ago? How has the COVID-19 pandemic changed the physical attributes of the buildings and sites you manage? For all, there have been changes, and for most those shifts were significant. As you and your team continue to implement new systems and tools, and reintroduce pre-pandemic elements back to your facility, I’m sure you know that it is still a work in progress, and the lessons learned over the past 16 months will continue to present themselves to facilities pros across all industry sectors.
The articles featured in this issue are here to supplement the knowledge and strategies you’ve gathered thus far. Insights on the evolution of the office are found in “What Type Of Place Is The New Office?” and see “Creating Useful Outdoor Spaces” for ideas to consider outside your building. And, with rooftop gathering spaces popular for those who can provide this amenity, it’s important to remember that nearby cooling towers should be managed appropriately, covered in “The HVAC Factor: Cooling Towers And Rooftop Decks.”
Healthcare and senior living facilities have been in the spotlight throughout the COVID-19 crisis. The American Society for Health Care Engineering (ASHE) writes about the need for investment in “Investing In Health Care Infrastructure.” And, the head of FM at a senior living community across four states shares their approach to pandemic response and recovery in “COVID-19 Lessons Learned In Senior Living.”
And, we’ve included articles on technology, lighting and energy, and safety (think preparing for natural hazards). As always, feel free to share your stories and queries by sending an e-mail to the address below.
acosgrove@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: The Future Office Experience | Flexible work environments will flourish with smart technology.
The HVAC Factor: Cooling Towers And Rooftop Decks | Protect people from risk of Legionnaires’ Disease when they gather in these outdoor facility spaces.
Access Control: Touchless, Frictionless, Or Both? | Here’s a look at key differences between these two security paradigms, which can be also be used in concert.
What Type Of Place Is The New Office? | Organizational change around the new workplace isn’t one size-fits-all, and facility management has central role.
Creating Useful Outdoor Spaces | Here are ideas on expanding beyond the walls of your buildings.
Protecting Against Natural Hazards | Evolving threats call for a renewed look at emergency planning.
Investing In Health Care Infrastructure | Burdened by deferred maintenance, healthcare facilities face more challenges amid COVID-19.
COVID-19 Lessons Learned In Senior Living | Louisville, KY-based Trilogy Health Services shares its pandemic process across its 100+ communities.
Lighting A Way To Wellness | New standards will focus on impact of artificial lighting on human health.
Persistent Energy Efficiency In Buildings | Monitoring-based commissioning provides facility managers long-term energy insights.
Harnessing Building Documentation | Construction projects result in facility data that must be filed and organized, and technology helps wrangle the information.
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive April 2021 Issue (Volume 34, Number 2)
As we move into the second year of handling the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations that put a long pause on full occupancy in their facilities are welcoming people back to the buildings. The scope and speed of this transition varies by organization, and depends on a number of factors. But overall, a next phase seems to be upon society with facility management teams continuing to be a significant piece of the puzzle. And, traditional tasks and concerns important to the work of facility management remain. In all aspects, facility leaders continue to learn and strive forward to provide safe, efficient, comfortable environments. Many are back on balance, learning to operate in the new normal.
Lighting, always central to facilities, is being cast a new role as the industry learns more about the potential of UV lighting for healthy facilities. While used in HVAC and other areas of buildings for decades, the pandemic has spurred new interest and developments around UV-C light for healthy buildings. Our coverage of lighting extends to controls technology, with a look at a recent study on evolving costs of luminaire level lighting controls.
Meanwhile, ever-important aspects of facility management remain steadfast as priorities. We’ve covered some of these with an article on HVAC retrofits, fire sprinkler system maintenance, energy benchmarking, and a look at ADA compliance.
As always, please feel free share your stories by sending me a message at the e-mail address below. Happy Spring!
acosgrove@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: Data Center Trends To Watch In 2021 | Uptime Institute identifies five factors expected to impact data center facilities this year and beyond.
The HVAC Factor: Best Practices For HVAC Retrofits That Deliver | For best results, conduct a holistic evaluation of the systems already in place.
Get The Message: Reduce Water Use | Communicating conservation efforts can make a real difference. Plus, technology tools help to track water usage and goals.
2021 Readers’ Choice Awards | In this annual survey of Facility Executive readers, votes were cast for product and service suppliers preferred during 2020.
UV-C Lighting For Healthy Facilities | Ultraviolet light already was in use to disinfect pathogens.Now, it’s being deployed against COVID-19.
Trends In Lighting Controls | A recent study examines current costs to install luminaire level lighting controls in facilities.
Sprinkler Systems And Maintenance | Follow inspection, testing, and maintenance steps to ensure this active fire protection system is in compliance.
Sprinkler Systems And Freezing Weather | Protect facilities from water damage with equipment that maintains auxiliary drains year-round.
COVID-19 On Campus, One Year Later | For many in higher education, budgets are tighter than ever while the efficacy of facilities services remains in the spotlight.
A Look At Energy Benchmarking Options | Stuck in a rut? There is more than one way to benchmark energy in buildings and plants.
Accessibility And Facilities | Ask the right questions to implement ADA compliant solutions.
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive February 2021 Issue (Volume 34, Number 1)
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit North America in early 2020, facility management professionals and their teams responded by working diligently to understand the best course of action for their particular organization. This required reaching out to others both inside and outside of the industry. Society as a whole learned more about the threat, its impact on people in and around buildings, and how facilities teams could make changes to mitigate the threat and help to ensure the health of occupants. Now in early 2021, we know more about what can be done to protect people. Some have made changes expected to be permanent, while others are in a temporary scenario. Since 2003, this magazine has recognized a singular “Facility Executive of the Year” at the start of each year; for 2020, we chose to look at how a number of organizations made a difference.
Meanwhile, buildings still need maintenance and care outside of COVID-19 requirements and recommendations. Building envelope and exteriors continue to require attention for safety and enjoyment of all occupants, so this month’s issue features articles addressing building envelope and related maintenance.
In a year of adapting to changing conditions, the Facility Executive team made the move to a brand new office toward the end of 2020. The light-filled space is configured for current and future needs of our entire company. See the space, and read the story of our move here. And, if your organization relocated during 2020, share your story by sending a note to me at the email address below.
acosgrove@groupc.com
Blogging at FacilityExecutive.com/facilityblog
Twitter: FacilityExec
Tech And FM: Technology For Healthy Workspaces | Facility professionals are leveraging established and emerging tech tools to support health and wellness in facilities.
The HVAC Factor: IAQ And Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems | To deliver on ventilation and energy efficiency conditions, facility managers may consider DOAS units for their buildings.
Three Sustainable Groundskeeping Ideas | Campus landscape operations can move toward greener practices with incremental changes.
A Look Back At 2020 | Facility executives and their organizations have met the evolving challenges from COVID-19 with a variety of ways.
Protecting Building Exteriors | Preventive, ongoing maintenance is vital for safety and aesthetics.
Safety During Building Restorations | Building envelope projects at secure facilities require specific planning measures.
Drones For Façade Inspections | Computer vision technology presents paradigm shift for building envelope maintenance.
A Look At Touchless Security | Protecting occupants includes a touch-free security experience.
New Office For Facility Executive | Group C Media, Inc., parent company of Facility Executive, has moved to a location tailor-made for current and future operations.
Exterior Lighting Retrofits | Upgrading illumination outside your buildings? Examine five areas that impact results.
Looking To Reorganize Janitorial Closets? | Consider these five tips to maintain safety and productivity.
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Facility Executive December 2020 Issue (Volume 33, Number 6)
As I write this, the first supply of COVID-19 vaccines are beginning to be distributed through a complex infrastructure. While we do not know how the pandemic might be harnessed in the coming months, there is hope we may be approaching a new phase. At home, in our communities, and in the facilities you manage, the past nine months have tested the resolve of people all over the world, in all walks of life. Buildings, the setting for so many activities in our lives, have been a huge focus in terms of how to protect people from the virus, whether they have been present the entire time in mission-critical facilities, or to prepare for employees, students, or guests to return.
In this issue, we’ve included several articles on developments related to HVAC operations and maintenance to combat COVID-19. While the best practices and recommendations continue to evolve, these articles share information to help guide your decisions in both the near-term and long-term. Health and safety in buildings was a growing area of importance for facilities professionals prior to the pandemic, and all signs point to this remaining atop the list of priorities.
And as you’re looking for products and services to improve your facilities in other areas, check out SOLUTIONS 2021. Featured here are innovations in the market for the coming year. Peruse these offerings aimed at providing facilities professionals solutions for the new year and beyond.
Wishing you and yours a healthy and safe 2021!
Editor-in-Chief
Tech And FM: AI Gains Traction In Commercial Buildings | Facility management is seeing the benefits of artificial intelligence implementation in operations.
The HVAC Factor: Diagnose Systems, Then Treat | To protect against COVID-19 and other indoor air quality threats, plan steps to increase ventilation and improve filtration.
Energy Improvement Aims High | An energy “Retro Rumble” recognizes retro-commissioning project at former Nestlé Company headquarters.
Solutions 2021: Advancements In FM | As the new year approaches, these featured products are poised to support facility management needs.
Indoor Air Quality And The Pandemic | Here is a look at risk, energy use, and carbon impacts for commercial HVAC systems.
Mitigating Risk Of Aerosol Spread | Managing indoor air quality is more important than ever.
Safety In Manufacturing Plants During COVID-19 | Apply these early lessons learned to keep employees healthy in manufacturing facilities.
Parking Lots And Tripping Hazards | Without proper maintenance, wheel stops, manhole covers, and asphalt pose threats to pedestrians.
Floodplain Models And Facilities | Reduce risk and damage from floods by reassessing the conditions around building sites.
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Facility Executive October 2020 Issue (Volume 33, Number 5)
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic remains a central concern for facility management professionals. Along with the rest of the world, building professionals have learned much about the virus and how facility design, operations, and maintenance can be altered to help keep people safe from this threat. And, we continue to learn. Organizations, including the U.S. Green Building Council and the International WELL Building Institute, have stepped up to offer guidance tailored to this current health threat. Meanwhile, indoor air quality and effective cleaning procedures remain top of mind for facility management leaders and their teams.
In this evolving landscape, it seemed the industry’s focus on sustainability may have fell quiet for a while. But, it appears this was more of a regrouping. Environmental considerations are more important than ever, as climate impacts continue to threaten communities. Initiatives around combatting COVID-19 overlap with green building concerns in some aspects—in green cleaning efforts aimed at the virus, for example. And, buildings resilient against not only health threats but to extreme weather and manmade events remain an important goal.
As we continue the progress toward healthy, sustainable, resilient facilities, take a moment to review the accomplishments you’ve made thus far in 2020, and then forge ahead..
Editor-in-Chief
Tech And FM: Mass Notification Plays A Part During COVID-19 | This communication tool helps to keep facility stakeholders informed throughout a pandemic.
The HVAC Factor: A Look At Propane For HVAC Systems | This energy source offers an alternative in specific scenarios.
Maximize Service From Your Landscape Contractors | Communication with these service providers goes a long way toward an outstanding landscape.
Building Performance, Human Impacts | For optimal performance, people and buildings should be in sync.
Resilient Buildings As First Line Of Defense | Assess potential risks to maximize the protection your facilities can provide, and what it will withstand. Plus, the U.S. Green Building Council has resources to reference.
Green Buildings, Safety First | Four new pilot credits added to the LEED rating system include a focus on surface cleaning and indoor air quality.
The Way Forward With A New WELL Rating System | A task force formed by the International WELL Building Institute came together to create a health and safety program.
Designing For Wayfinding | Proper planning to guide facility occupants provides comfort and safety.
Second Act For Office Furniture | Reduce environmental impact by developing a reuse plan for workplace furnishings that are no longer needed.
Green Cleaning For Safety | New USGBC cleaning guidelines focus on sustainability, safely.
Renewable Energy: The Gift Of Solar Energy | Global Links, a Pittsburgh nonprofit, installed a solar energy array on its roof with a combination of financing tools.
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Facility Executive August 2020 Issue (Volume 33, Number 4)
As the Fall season approaches, many facilities teams evaluate what they have accomplished year-to-date and plan for the upcoming year. Understanding what is working well for sites, and looking at where and how to improve areas of operations and maintenance are top of mind come September. This time of year looks very different for facility management professionals—and, of course, you’re not alone. People in all walks of life and professions have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The last quarter of 2020 will be a challenge, but hopefully will be a time when new, effective protocols and processes begin to take hold.
This edition of the magazine addresses the evolution that facilities are undergoing, with articles that focus on the impacts of COVID-19 while also taking a look at everpresent facilities issues (see the roofing maintenance article and the pest management content). Security and safety are a focus in this issue with a look at the potential of audio for facility security. The safety coverage shares insights on social distancing strategies, accessibility issues, and preventing slip-fall incidents. As you and your teams continue to adapt to the new normal, we hope these articles will assist in your decision-making in moving forward.
And “the new normal” for hospitality facilities is discussed in two articles: The New Normal For Hospitality and Welcome Back: The New Hotel Stay. One of the hardest hit industries during the current crisis, hospitality facilities are finding ways to welcome back guests safely and comfortably. That, after all, is the goal of facility management leaders and their teams in every industry.
Editor-in-Chief
Tech And FM: Cybersecurity And Facilities Systems | Assessment of OT/IoT infrastructure identifies vulnerabilities that can impact the organization as a whole.
The HVAC Factor: HVAC Systems and Reopening Buildings Amid COVID-19 | Examine your facility’s HVAC systems with airflow, filtration, and humidity conditions considered.
Drones And Roof Maintenance | Commercial roofing inspections can be made easier and more effective with this technology.
Listen Up: The Sound Of Security | Network audio solutions can be a critical element of facility security and safety systems.
Social Distancing In High-traffic Facilities | Plan, quantify, and reinforce is a strategy to keep people safe in dense occupancy spaces. Plus, five ways to improve accessibility during these times. And, prevent slip-fall incidents.
Laser Focused On Pest Birds | A new laser technology is well-suited to keep away pest birds from flat roofs and open spaces.
Pest Management Tips For Lodging Facilities | Take proactive measures to prevent infestations before these have a chance to materialize in these hospitality environments.
Find The Opportunity In Your Building Water Systems | Strike a balance between water safety and efficiency with a comprehensive water management program.
Five Tips For Hygienic Restrooms | Public spaces are scrutinized more than ever for cleanliness, and commercial restrooms are no exception.
The New Normal For Hospitality | As the hospitality industry adapts to the impact of COVID-19, guests and staff will encounter changes to put them at ease.
Welcome Back: The New Hotel Stay | Design is a key component of the guest experience, and adapting to the current climate will help ease worries.
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive June 2020 Issue (Volume 33, Number 3)
As facility management professionals continue to adjust to the impact of the global pandemic, we’re steadily learning new ways to operate and maintain buildings. From adapting how building systems operate to revising cleaning and sanitation protocols, and from communicating with stakeholders to reconfiguring space and reimagining furniture and fixtures layouts, moving forward safely is the mantra around the industry.
Buildings that closed in the early weeks of the COVID-19 crisis are starting to reopen, or are planning with a target date in mind. And those facilities that stayed open throughout the past few months have seen significant changes to their buildings. And everyone is thinking differently than in the past—the past being just several months ago. The relative speed in which we’ve been learning about what best practices are in this “new normal” and how facility executives, their teams, and their partners have responded is testament to the agility and resourcefulness of those who work in facility management.
In this issue, we’ve included several articles to help guide your decisions moving forward with the pandemic top of mind in the world still today. A look at aerosol disinfection methods can be found in the Services & Maintenance coverage. And workplace design insights are shared with references available to the industry. And, we asked healthcare facilities designers to share thoughts on these spaces for the future, while an expert on aging shares insights for moving forward at senior living facilities with wellness at the forefront.
Sharing lessons learned is valuable, and I’d invite you to share your experiences by sending an email to me at acosgrove@groupc.com.
Editor-in-Chief
Tech And FM: Construction Data For Facilities Of The Future | Plan to grasp the full potential of today’s available technologies.
The HVAC Factor: Propane For Heating And Cooling | Suitable for a variety of facility types, this fuel source can provide efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Aerosol Disinfection In A Pandemic World | COVID-19 has emphasized the need for health-based cleaning, particularly for high contact touch points.
Returning To Work: The New Office | Facility management teams are central to providing a safe, productive workplace.
Tech In The New Workplace | Communication, space reservations, and more are at your fingertips in a post-COVID-19 office.
Future Proof Access Control | Choosing security equipment for access control should take into account present and future demands and capabilities.
Tips For Touch-Free Plumbing Retrofits | Accomplish this facility project with minimal interruption to service.
Maximizing Energy Projects | Work with energy service companies to set goals and improve facilities energy performance.
Five Changes On The Horizon For Parking Facilities | Look beyond the short-term impact of COVID-19 on parking management operations.
Healthcare Facilities Design After COVID-19 | Look at five areas of focus when rethinking facility layout. Plus, evaluate flooring for healthcare spaces. And, how will senior living settings look moving forward?
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive April 2020 Issue (Volume 33, Number 2)
A little more than one month ago, I took a day out of the office to attend a regional trade show nearby. As my colleague and I made the hour drive to the conference center, we agreed that we would avoid shaking hands with those we met at the exhibit booths or while walking the aisles. It was late February, and the concern about coronavirus (now COVID-19) was beginning to hit a new level in our state of New Jersey. Once on the show floor, I remembered my self-imposed ban on handshakes and refrained. But, soon enough I was shaking hands and back to the normal greeting virtually all of us utilize at these industry events. Thankfully, I’m in good health as I type this letter to you. But, what a difference one month makes. Here we are in the midst of this crisis, and depending where you are, waiting for “the curve to flatten.”
This situation is affecting us all, in more ways than I, as an individual, can imagine. And the perspectives and experiences are vast. But one thing I’d like to comment on is the resourcefulness of people around the world, but also the facility management and buildings industry. From remote working and learning to revamping manufacturing lines to produce medical PPE, and from donations to newly forged partnerships, our staff has had the privilege of having a window into how this industry is banding together to keep people safe, facilities operating, and more.
So, thank you facilities professionals. Thank you manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. Thank you to the associations and other groups that have come together. Thank you to all who are doing your part to get through this crisis.
Editor-in-Chief
Tech And FM: Anti-Drone Technology For Facilities | For security-sensitive sites, keep an eye to the sky.
The HVAC Factor: Paths to Improved Indoor Air Quality | Help improve indoor air quality with higher MERV ratings and supplemental filtration.
Facility Retrofit: Work Order System Streamlined | The Buckeye Elementary School District in Arizona implements facilities software to maintain its buildings and grounds.
Protecting Commercial Restrooms From Pests | Tackle each area of restroom facilities to maximize pest management efforts.
HVAC Filtration and COVID-19 | The COVID-19 crisis has impacted all aspects of facility management. This story provides insight on HVAC issues.
2020 Readers’ Choice Awards | In this annual survey, Facility Executive readers cast their votes for preferred product and service suppliers in 2019.
Networked Lighting Controls: Realize The Savings | Beyond energy savings, these lighting controls are a pathway to intelligent use of space and better building diagnostics.
Simulating Natural Light With LEDs | Looking for LED lighting to deliver color rendering that enhances visual comfort for occupants pays off.
Advancements in Smoke Detectors | The updated UL 268, Standard for Smoke Detectors for Fire Alarm Systems will be in effect June 2021.
Five Ways to Begin Energy Benchmarking | For actionable insight, buildings are increasingly tracking and comparing energy performance.
Data Center Trends to Watch in 2020 | Uptime Institute has identified factors impacting data centers for this year and beyond.
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Volume 33, Number 1
Tech And FM: Protect Operational Technology For Cyber Security | Recognize vulnerabilities, then collaborate with IT to manage risk.
The HVAC Factor: Phase Change Material Subdues Hot/Cold Calls | A trial installation of phase change material overhead showcases latent heat storage to boost occupant comfort.
Think Smart About Facility Waste | IoT connected devices help facility management redefine waste management protocols.
Facility Executive Of The Year 2020 | Dennis Williams, senior vice president of operations and assistant general manager at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, WI, is moving the new facility forward.
Addressing Moisture Intrusion In Buildings | Examine facilities inside and out for building envelope intrusions.
Plazas and Terraces: Construction Considerations | Improving these outdoor spaces looks at safety and performance.
Leak Detection: For Safety’s Sake | Technology tools help identify gas and water leaks before disaster strikes.
New Year, New Space | Employee-focused design set the tone for Poettker Construction Company’s new headquarters in Breese, IL.
Purpose-Based Design For The Workplace | Form follows function, and creating office space where employees will thrive calls for a closer look.
Six Ways Submetering Improves Energy Insight | Energy meters in facilities can help reduce energy consumption, cut costs, and increase sustainability.
Paints And Coatings For Commercial Spaces | Appearance and performance matter when choosing finishes.
Renewable Energy: Four Ways Toward A New Energy Economy | New report from the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) recommends policies to accelerate market growth.
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Volume 32, Number 6
The HVAC Factor: R-22 Phaseout Arrives In 2020 | The R-22 refrigerant phaseout is nearly complete. What happens next?
Tech And FM: Smart Buildings In Real Time | In an evolving landscape, smart building technology dynamically responds to immediate and future needs.
Protect Through Building Façade Inspections | Safety ordinances in major U.S. cities are prompting a renewed focus on building envelope conditions.
FM Solutions 2020 | As the new year approaches, these featured products are poised to support facility management needs.
Tackling HVAC Deferred Maintenance | Facilities teams can work toward optimized HVAC systems by implementing several practical solutions.
Hybrid HVAC Cooling | These types of systems help facilities to balance water and energy usage demands and goals.
Emerging Energy Services Opportunities | Recent research on energy-as-a-service (EaaS) offers insight on how commercial and industrial customers can benefit.
Budgeting For Roof Maintenance | At Broward College in South Florida, roofing condition assessments driving planning for this building component.
Restrooms That Recapture Water And Waste | At Georgia Tech, a new campus building’s green restrooms are part of its Living Building Challenge pursuit.
Guide The Way With Color | Wayfinding through a facility can be enhanced with intentional choices of varied hues.
Renewable Energy: Mapping Geothermal Potential In NYC | Research into New York City’s geology has produced a geothermal ground source screening tool for site assessments.
To subscribe to Facility Executive magazine, visit this link.
Facility Executive: October 2019 IssueVolume 32, Number 5
Tech And FM: Making Sense Of Sensors | Data provided by sensors helps to maximize facility space assets.
The HVAC Factor: Natural Gas Challenges In Northeast U.S. | Interest in co-generation systems for buildings presents opportunity, followed by infrastructure obstacles.
Keeping Facility Grounds Safe And Sound | From tree care to snow removal, ensure safe and accessible sites throughout the year.
Pursuing Zero Net Energy Buildings | Whether for new builds or renovation, here are five key aspects.
Greening The Building Envelope | The road to a more sustainable future for building materials and products is multi-faceted.
The Cycle Of A Circular Economy | From manufacture to end-user and back again, the circular concept for office furniture and more is gaining momentum.
The WELL Building Standard And Green Cleaning | Focused on human health and wellness in the built environment, WELL concepts support sustainable cleaning programs.
Water Systems And Legionella | Incidence of Legionnaires’ Disease in buildings could be reduced by improved practices and structured policies.
LEED Case Study: A Place Of Honor Sustained | Soldiers Memorial Military Museum in St. Louis, MO earned LEED Gold certification, preserving its past while securing the future.
Six Tips For A Successful Lighting Retrofit | Designing to code and considering future needs help to minimize obstacles and maximize investment.
Technology For Workspace Planning | Software platforms help employees control and improve their work environments.
Renewable Energy: Green Campus Revitalization | Sustainability plans for Ford Motor Company’s Dearborn, MI campus include net zero goals for energy, water, and waste.
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