The role of facility manager is like being a ship’s captain, orchestra conductor, and quarterback, all rolled into one. On top of those duties, many facilities managers often act as chief supply chain officers as well, managing a complex web of suppliers that, if disrupted in any way, can threaten their ability to provide clients with quality experiences and services.
A delay in HVAC parts can hold up a scheduled move-in. A late cleaning supply delivery risks an under-stocked property and dissatisfied tenants. Keeping facilities operating at their best depends on a continual flow of inventory and a supply chain that keeps pace.
One of the best ways to ensure that the FM supply chain continues uninterrupted (and even becomes more efficient) is by investing in resilience strategies. Innovative technologies are altering how logistics and inventory management can be approached and helping to ensure that facility managers never again need to chase up on cleaning deliveries or worry if maintenance supplies are in stock.
Why facility managers need to prioritize supply chain resilience
A key obstacle in improving real estate and FM supply chains has been that industry professionals simply aren’t aware of the strategies available to them. Logistics are viewed as a separate issue when, in fact, they’re an integral part of real estate management. Supply deliveries allow maintenance work to occur as scheduled and support the litany of other tasks involved with keeping properties in working order.
Perhaps the most important logistics strategy that assists in this is supply chain resiliency, characterized by networks that are not only able to bounce back from disruptions but also anticipate and prevent them altogether. The strategy has existed for years, but it was mainly during the pandemic that businesses realized just how vulnerable they were to supply chain disruptions. No one was immune to the disruptive nature of a delayed truck or late supplier during that time, and that is still true today.
Most networks remain vulnerable. Supply chain resilience is all about addressing those vulnerabilities and taking a proactive stance to protect against both visible and unseen risks. As Canadian businesses grapple with tariffs on US-supplied goods and work to stay ahead in a competitive real estate market, it’s never been more important to maintain steady supply networks. It can make or break tenant satisfaction, property safety, and the overall quality and efficiency that facility managers are able to offer.
Using automation and data to prevent inventory shortages
Most of the research on automation technology and its impact on inventory management has been done in the retail space, but the information is highly relevant for facility managers. IoT sensors used to track inventory numbers and locations have helped improve inventory accuracy by 25 to 35 per cent and decreased stockout incidents by 35 to 45 per cent.
Here’s how to use automation technology to get these kinds of results and build more resilient supply chains:
Inventory Management System (IMS) supported with IoT sensors and RFID: This combination of trackers and management software can automate the monitoring of stock levels in real time, re-order items when they drop below set thresholds or exceed expiration dates, and even track usage patterns so facility managers have a clearer idea of what gets used and what doesn’t.
Tracking technology: To get the most out of the above, tracking technology needs to be integrated into supply rooms, supply vending machines, and even consumables like soap dispensers.
Predictive analytics: Use an IMS for predictive analytics. The data tracked from IoT gains new power with predictive analytics, which helps forecast when supply levels are likely to drop to schedule re-orders accordingly.
Strengthening supplier partnerships to keep cleaning supplies flowing
Keeping supplies consistent isn’t only a matter of timely re-orders and accurate inventory management; supplier relationships also play a key role. For a supply chain to be truly resilient, it needs to include reliable suppliers and alternative sourcing options in case any of the usual partners face shortages.
Strengthening these relationships comes down to several factors, but chief among them is clear communication and responsiveness on both sides. If payments on orders lag or a facility manager becomes known for sending frantic, last-minute orders, it can quickly diminish relationships. With both examples mentioned, automation can be hugely helpful. It ensures that seemingly small administrative tasks are done on time and without undue stress, and that alone can build a sense of trust and respect that makes for long-lasting supplier relationships.
Implementing sustainable sourcing for a more resilient facility
Sustainability and supply chain resiliency go hand in hand. Implementing sustainability improvements depends on the exact goals of your business, but reducing or eliminating unnecessary delivery-related emissions and fuel usage is an excellent start, reducing expenses and environmental impact.
Doing so means collaborating with logistics partners and suppliers who:
- Use smart routing technology to reduce fuel usage during transportation
- Implement reusable or recyclable packaging where possible
- Have third-party certifications to confirm their sustainability measures
It’s also important that the actual materials being sourced are more sustainable. This can improve property sustainability ratings, such as the GRESB score and increase the overall value of a facility.
Embedding supply chain resilience into everyday facility operations
For facility managers, resilience is no longer just a supply chain buzzword; it’s a necessity. By embracing automation, strengthening supplier partnerships, and prioritizing sustainable sourcing, facilities can safeguard against disruptions while improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing tenant satisfaction. In many ways, resilient supply chains are the backbone of resilient facilities, ensuring operations run smoothly today and remain adaptable for whatever challenges lie ahead.
Nick Fryer, Vice President of Marketing, Sheer Logistics, has over a decade of experience in the logistics industry, spanning marketing, public relations, sales enablement, M&A and more at 3PLs and 4PLs, including AFN Logistics, GlobalTranz, and Sheer Logistics.
