Research space and key reports
The Observatory is a collaborative platform that promotes the international development and recognition of Facility Management (FM), allowing professionals in the field to access reports and studies that encourage a deeper understanding of this discipline. Through this platform, the aim is to create a space where research, data, and best practices are published to assist both experts and those who are unfamiliar with the profession. Furthermore, the results and deliverables are shared openly, with due recognition given to all contributors. In this article, we will address the importance of this platform and the impact it has on FM at a global level.
A space for collaboration and learning
The Observatory was created in response to the growing need for a platform that serves as a meeting point for professionals, researchers, and academics in the Facility Management field. The main objective of this initiative is to promote collaboration among experts from various parts of the world, with the aim of developing relevant content that adds value to the sector. Thanks to this platform, FM gains visibility and is presented as a strategic discipline within the international landscape.
Each year, the Observatory publishes a series of reports that provide insight into the current state of FM across various regions and sectors, fostering collective learning. These reports are the result of the collaboration of many professionals who voluntarily contribute their knowledge and experience through studies that reflect trends and needs within the sector. In 2024, a total of nine reports have been published, analysing in depth different aspects of Facility Management.
Regional focus: Latin America and Europe
One of the main features of the reports published in the Observatory in 2024 has been their regional focus. Six reports have been conducted analysing FM in Latin America, in key sectors such as banking, energy, education, industrial, retail, and corporate. These studies have provided a more detailed view of how FM is managed in different countries and what challenges and opportunities exist within the region.
For instance, the report on FM in banking institutions in LATAM examines how these organisations are adapting their services and structures to face changes in the business environment. Similarly, the study on FM in energy companies in LATAM highlights the importance of sustainability and operational efficiency in this sector. These reports offer an accurate snapshot of the situation in Latin America, which is useful for both local professionals and those wishing to expand their knowledge of the region.
Digitalisation as a challenge and opportunity
Another important aspect addressed in the Observatory’s reports is the digitalisation of Facility Management, a topic of increasing relevance in Europe. This year, two studies were published specifically on this subject, one focusing on Spain and the other on Portugal. Both reports, continuing the “FMgoesDIGI” study previously produced, examine the challenges and opportunities digitalisation poses to FM, from the implementation of new technologies to staff training and process adaptation.
These reports highlight that digitalisation not only improves operational efficiency but also enables better customer service and generates new business opportunities. However, the challenges of this transition are also recognised, such as the lack of digital skills in some teams and resistance to change in certain organisations. Despite these challenges, digitalisation is seen as a key factor for the future of Facility Management, enabling more agile, efficient management that is aligned with the new demands of the market.
The future of Facility Management in Spain
Finally, the last report published this year in the Observatory focused on the situation and trends of Facility Management in Spain. This study examines how the pandemic has accelerated certain changes in the way facilities are managed, emphasising the importance of resilience, flexibility, and innovation within the sector. The pandemic has shown that organisations that quickly adapted to new challenges, such as managing employee health and safety,
Additionally, the report examines four key elements of FM: the Facility Management department, the services provided, the suppliers, and the managed spaces. These aspects have evolved in recent years, adapting to new needs and priorities. Furthermore, this final study of the year highlights that security, health, and operational efficiency will continue to be crucial factors for facility management in the future.
The Observatory is an essential tool for the development of Facility Management, both at the national and international level. The reports published in 2024 reflect the evolution and challenges of FM, with a specific focus on Latin America and Europe, and underline the importance of digitalisation and resilience for the future of the sector. The collaborative work of all contributors is key to ensuring that the Observatory remains a reference in the field of Facility Management and continues to promote the continuous improvement of this global discipline.
