The benefits and obstacles of mobile technology in FM service procurement

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the currently experienced benefits and obstacles for enhancing facilties management (FM) with the currently available technological enablers.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents an integration of several studies conducted to identify the current benefits and obstacles of mobile technology as perceived by the Finnish FM professionals. The main intentions of the study were: to describe the current technological enablers for the utilisation of mobile technology at FM settings; and to interview the FM professionals on their perceived benefits and obstacles of the utilisation of the currently available technology.

Findings

The change of practice to support the exploitation of mobile technology is emergent. The findings of the empirical part include the currently feasible mobile solutions and their perceived limitations. The experiences benefits are discussed and critical success factors are nominated. The perceived benefits are mostly related to improved resource efficiency and quality control. The essential success factors and remaining obstacles are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical part is limited to Finnish settings, but the observations are likely valid in several other developed countries as well.

Practical implications

The change of FM practice to benefit from the exploitation of mobile technology is emergent.

Originality/value

The paper gives experience‐based suggestions for both demand and supply sides of the service procurement to gain the feasible benefits and avoid the currently hindering obstacles, as the paper provides insight of the current and future tools for the mobile aspects of FM. The findings are relevant for the service providers and operators as well.

Citation

Tolman, A., Matinmikko, T., Möttönen, V., Tulla, K. and Vähä, P. (2009), "The benefits and obstacles of mobile technology in FM service procurement", Facilities, Vol. 27 No. 11/12, pp. 445-456. https://doi.org/10.1108/02632770910980736