The CMMS triggers an automatically generated work order request for a piece
of equipment when certain maintenance conditions are met. Configurable main-
tenance event types may include duty cycles, run hours and high data values.
A CMMS can include a fleet management module that automatically
creates work orders for preventative maintenance of vehicles; it can establish
a vehicle replacement schedule based on vehicle cost, as well as track
registration, license renewal, and warranty work.
A CMMS software package can provide information for other management
areas and tasks. These include property and lease management, budgeting,
space and moving management, room reservations, furniture and equipment
management, emergency preparedness, environmental quality, and main-
tenance the work order requests. A feature of certain recent CMMS
programs is the capability to link data to spaces within a building. This is typi-
cally done by a CMMS that can handle Computer-Aided-Design (CAD) files
and present information in an intuitive visual manner.
Many CMMS programs can be linked to a web browser, allowing facility
managers to access specific functions of the CMMS remotely with role-based
security features that prevent unauthorized access to data. Off site field per-
sonnel can view work order requests from remote locations and determine
which tools and materials are needed (Fig. 12.4).
Facility Manager
The position of facility manager is a long-standing profession known by many
titles. While only recently professionally accredited, facility managers have a
long list of increasingly important responsibilities that continually grow as
technology becomes more prevalent in the workplace and the complexity of
buildings increases.
The facility manager must keep pace with technology while maintaining
a seamless and invisible integration of these new technologies. Facility man-
agers must have a background in construction practices, local regulations, pur-
chasing, project management, account management, human resources,
building systems and operations.
The duties of a facility manager will depend on the size and type of facil-
ities being managed, ranging from mechanical equipment maintenance and
repair scheduling, to providing interoffice relocation support to employees.
Organizations such as the International Facilities Management Association
(IFMA) and Building Owners and Management Association (BOMA) pro-
vide continuing education and assist facility managers in staying abreast of
information pertinent to the profession.
136 Smart Building Systems for Architects, Owners, and Builders