Business relationships between the principals and their respective firms span many years, and the companies have established an enviable global reputation in their respective markets with both public and private sector commissions and for industry thought leadership.

Many clients are reviewing their asset management activities, which require a transdisciplinary “whole life” approach with an ever-increasing emphasis on ESG (environmental, social and governance factors), technology, standards and performance analytics. Clients will benefit from the combined resources of all three companies in the formulation of creative solutions to their built environment needs.

It was also important to these companies that they all are separately RICS regulated firms.

Comments on the new strategic alliance

Simon King, managing director of BWA (Europe), explained:

Our organizations specialize in the provision of independent lean knowledge-based property and FM consultancy. It seems a logical step, therefore, for the three of us to join forces to provide consultancy services which combine and build on our respective skill-sets to deliver solutions which both meet and continue to exceed our clients’ expectations.

Chris Wragg, managing director of BWA (Middle East), commented:

We look forward to this strategic collaboration bringing a wealth of international experience to our clients across the Australian, European, African and Middle Eastern markets. The combined services of In-Touch Advisory and BWA will undoubtedly magnify the value of the services that we offer to clients and heighten our position as leading property development, Chartered Surveying and Facilities Management consultants.

Stephen Ballesty, founding director of In-Touch Advisory, stated:

We are seeing increasing demand for innovative and sustainable solutions, which requires a more global perspective. This collaboration aims to enhance both companies’ consultancy capabilities and reach while maintaining our independence, and delivering enhanced value to our built environment clients worldwide.

For more information, visit In-Touch Advisory (Australasia), BWA (Europe) or BWA (Middle East).

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This information is intended as a guide for architects, owners, building managers, contractors and others in the building industry who are interested in the proper care and maintenance of finished architectural aluminum.

Carl Troiano (Trojan Powder Coating), vice chair of the FGIA Architectural Aluminum Handling, Cleaning and Maintenance Task Group, explained:

This guideline will benefit all those involved in the entire process from manufacturing and fabrication, installation and future maintenance of a project.  It is the most current specification to help deal with the cleaning and maintenance guidelines to assist in the prevention of damage to the finished aluminum surfaces. FGIA and its members have been able to provide a concise specification to assist in maintaining the longevity of anodized surfaces, painted and powder coated aluminum surfaces including cleaning recommendations and care after installation.

AAMA 609 and 610-25, Cleaning and Maintenance Guide for Architecturally Finished Aluminum, as well as other documents available from FGIA, may be purchased from the online store at the discounted member rate of $25 or the non-member price of $70.

For more information about FGIA and its activities, visit FGIAonline.

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Overview

In a small community where resources are finite, Union City, Indiana, faced the challenge of upgrading critical infrastructure while balancing financial, sustainability, and community priorities. Through a strategic partnership with ABM, the city implemented a comprehensive energy, lighting, HVAC, and infrastructure upgrade that exceeded financial, operational, and community goals — maximizing outcomes while minimizing waste.

“ABM played a critical role in helping us identify what we could be doing better — how we could be more efficient and sound from an infrastructure perspective,” said Union City, Indiana, Mayor Chad Spence. “Their expertise helped us hit the mark on sustainability, financial responsibility, and community impact.”

Challenges

Union City’s historic infrastructure, including a museum housed in a former railroad hotel, required urgent repairs. Leaky roofs and outdated systems posed risks to both the buildings and their irreplaceable contents. Additionally, high energy consumption — particularly at wastewater treatment facilities — placed a significant financial burden on the city’s budget, limiting opportunities for community growth and development.

Key challenges included:

• Aging infrastructure in need of modernization
• High energy costs straining the city’s budget
• Preserving historic structures while improving efficiency
• Overcoming permitting and regulatory hurdles for renewable energy solutions

An engineering and infrastructure solution

ABM’s industry-leading Engineering & Infrastructure Solutions team, led by Chris Mastrianni, Joe Boetsch, Ann Smith (LEED AP), and Erick Dustin, worked closely with Union City leadership to design a future-focused plan.

Key project components:

• Energy efficiency and sustainability: Integration of solar arrays to reduce dependency on the grid and lower operational costs
• Infrastructure upgrades: Modernization of lighting, HVAC systems, and wastewater treatment facilities to improve efficiency and performance
• Financial innovation: A strategic financial model that leveraged energy savings to fund additional infrastructure improvements
• Community impact: Reinvesting cost savings into critical areas such as parks, streets, and sidewalks

Results and impact

By thinking outside the box and leveraging innovative solutions, ABM helped Union City achieve:

• Significant energy cost savings – Enabling reallocation of funds to community growth initiatives
• Improved infrastructure efficiency – Enhancing operational performance across city facilities
• Preserved historic structures – Protecting the city’s heritage while modernizing key assets
• Sustainability and resiliency – Positioning the city for a more energy-independent future

Union City powers a sustainable future

Union City’s successful partnership with ABM showcases how smart infrastructure investment can drive long-term sustainability, financial efficiency, and community growth. By prioritizing innovation, fiscal responsibility, and sustainability, Union City has set a precedent for how small communities can thrive through strategic energy and infrastructure improvements.

The “ABM Partners with Union City to Upgrade Municipal Infrastructure” video and transcript are available at ABM.

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The NFPA 660 introduces a risk-based, performance-oriented approach, allowing tailored safety measures based on specific risks. The standard refines Dust Hazard Analysis (DHA) requirements within a unified framework, enhancing clarity and removing redundancies. Additionally, it includes industry-specific chapters to address unique risks.

Eric Potorski, industrial vacuum specialist at Goodway Technologies, stated:

Making sure that our customers are purchasing the right equipment to safely address their environment and application has always been a top priority for us. Our robust and detailed consultation helps gather the necessary information to understand the material they are collecting, the environment and the disposal process. This thorough analysis is an effective, safe and necessary standard to be compliant with your DHA.

Goodway Technologies, a leader in industrial cleaning and maintenance solutions, is providing next steps to help businesses comply with NFPA 660:

• Review the standard: Familiarize yourself with NFPA 660 and understand how it applies to your facility.
• Conduct a Dust Hazard Analysis (DHA): If you haven’t already, perform a DHA to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
• Update safety procedures: Adjust your safety protocols and training programs to align with the new standard.
• Invest in proper equipment: Ensure you have the right dust collection, ventilation and housekeeping systems in place.
• Work with experts: Consulting with combustible dust safety professionals can help streamline compliance and enhance workplace safety.

Potorski continued:

This unified standard helps facilities proactively identify a more consistent approach to hazard management. Our team can provide consultation to help incorporate routine maintenance and find the right solutions for the right applications.

To help reduce potential hazards associated with combustible dust explosions, facilities can also implement the following best practices.

1. Ensure access to all hidden areas of the facility. Evaluate dust buildup on every horizontal surface, including ductwork, beam and joist surfaces, and areas above suspended ceilings.
2. Frequently inspect for dust. OSHA inspectors look for accumulations of 1/32 of an inch, which is about the thickness of a standard paper clip. Immediate cleaning is necessary when a layer of that amount covers a surface area equal to 5% of the floor area.
3. Implement regular cleaning intervals. Develop a plan for timely cleaning, ensuring that work cycle dust is removed concurrently with operations and not allowed to accumulate. Be cautious of dust dispersion during housekeeping.
4. Relocate dust collectors outside. Dust collectors with a volume greater than 8 cubic feet should be situated on the exterior of buildings to limit risks.
5. Ensure electrical wiring and equipment are approved for dust hazard conditions. OSHA recommends using proper electrical equipment in hazardous locations to eliminate a common ignition source.
6. Use certified industrial vacuums for picking up explosive material. In hazardous dust environments, “explosion-proof vacuums” approved for Class II conditions should be used to prevent sparks.
7. Control ignition sources. Post “No Smoking” signs, control static electricity through bonding and grounding equipment, and provide necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent ignition from static electricity.
8. Perform regular preventive maintenance on equipment. Faulty equipment is a common cause of ignition.
9. Train employees to recognize and prevent hazards. Proactively train new employees before they start work and periodically refresh their knowledge. Employees should understand safe work practices, as well as plant programs for dust control and ignition source control. Encourage employees to report unsafe practices and foster a company culture of safety. If fine dust, powders or other flammable materials are used in the facility, consider implementing these tips to enhance preparedness.

While this information can serve as a reference, it is important for plant and facility managers to discuss best practices with their safety officer or maintenance personnel before selecting equipment or implementing safety and preventative maintenance measures.

For more information on Goodway Technologies’ diverse line of industrial vacuums, visit Goodway.

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AI in the building maintenance industry leverages machine learning algorithms and data analytics to enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and overall performance of building maintenance processes. Used for predictive maintenance, energy management, and smart building management systems, AI technologies come with a host of benefits.

Recent technologies are able to summarize maintenance schedules for quick reference, highlighting asset types and locations, easing the process for engineers and facility managers. Similarly, AI is capable of analysing asset register data to automatically identify and map appropriate maintenance schedules to each asset — a task that frequently takes months to do manually.

While spotlighting the advantages AI can bring to maintenance professionals, the industry must also be aware of its pitfalls.

What are the pros of using AI technologies in a building maintenance strategy?

1. Cost reduction 

AI can automate the repetitive tasks associated with setting up maintenance plans and ensuring they are optimal and legally compliant. Efficient and effective maintenance relies on a strong understanding of the facilities and assets that require maintenance and an informed plan to address them. AI provides a new capacity to create a deeper understanding that would be unfeasibly costly to implement using human resources.

AI can be used to minimise maintenance costs by decreasing unplanned downtime and optimising energy consumption.

As AI provides real-time data analysis and insights that can help facility managers make more informed operational decisions, this can reduce the likelihood of costly errors in judgment.

2. Time efficiency 

By automating tasks, AI tools can help maintenance professionals work more efficiently by streamlining processes and cutting down on timely repetition.

AI software tools can assist with many traditionally manual tasks, speeding up repetitive processes and helping to standardise data. In the long term, this can save those responsible for building maintenance both time and effort, which can be used in more strategic, high-impact areas.

3. Maximises asset lifespan 

AI-powered solutions can extend asset lifecycles by predicting potential failures before they occur.

By recommending the best timing for maintenance (not applicable for statutory requirements), AI can, in turn, prevent both over-maintenance, which can cause unnecessary wear, and under-maintenance, which can lead to premature failure.

4. Provides more reliable reporting and analytics 

AI in facilities management is incredibly helpful for collecting, analysing, and simplifying the array of information involved with building maintenance and its associated responsibilities, including diagnosing problems.

Machine-learning AI can interpret data from various sources, including sensors and real-time user inputs, to identify patterns and make intelligent, personalised predictions about building management needs, for example, previous patterns of equipment failure.

In the past, data had to be sorted manually, with decisions often being made without clear, evidence-backed reasoning. Now, through machine-learning AI, data reporting and analytics can be achieved faster and more reliably than ever before, lowering the risk of human error.

What are the cons of leveraging these technologies?

1. High initial costs

Despite its benefits, the implementation of AI in building maintenance is not without challenges – the most obvious being the initial cost of deploying AI systems, such as sensor installation and integrating AI solutions. This upgrade can be particularly costly for older buildings.

Implementing AI systems can require significant upfront investment in hardware, software, and training, so careful planning and budgeting are essential for a successful and cost-effective onboarding.

2. Data Privacy and Security Concerns 

As AI systems collect and process large amounts of sensitive building and occupant data, this may cause privacy and cybersecurity concerns for an organisation.

As AI systems require high-quality, consistent data to function effectively, poor or incomplete data can lead to inaccurate insights or decisions.  In other words, AI is only as good as the data that goes into it.

Ensuring this data is collected, stored, and used in compliance with privacy regulations is crucial.

3. Overreliance 

Industry professionals must always approach AI adoption with caution and not fall into a cycle of overreliance. Artificial intelligence tools are not infallible; they require rigorous data validation and continuous human oversight. Facility management systems are complex and demand nuanced interpretation that AI algorithms may not fully comprehend

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Co-founded by IFMA and Autodesk, BLMI envisions a future in which the built environment operates with intelligence, efficiency and interoperability at every lifecycle phase: design, construction, operations, renovation and deconstruction. By emphasizing industry-wide collaboration and the adoption of best practices and advanced technologies, the initiative establishes a cohesive, holistic approach to lifecycle management that will help industry stakeholders reduce costs and improve asset longevity while addressing decarbonization and regulatory challenges.

BLMI places a strong focus on stakeholder collaboration, data governance, interoperability and advanced technology integration, such as building information modeling (BIM), digital twins, predictive analytics, and artificial intelligence enabling smarter decision making, reducing inefficiencies and creating a connected data ecosystem. The objective is to deliver tangible value to every sector of commercial real estate, including:

• Owners and investors: Extend asset lifespan, optimize operational costs and improve long-term financial performance.
• Facility operations: Move from reactive maintenance to proactive lifecycle management, improving efficiency and tenant satisfaction.
• Architecture, engineering and construction: Ensure design and construction integrate seamlessly with operational needs, reducing costly retrofits.
• Technology and service providers: Align digital solutions with industry-wide standards for seamless adoption and interoperability.

The Initiative does not seek to create or replace industry standards; rather, it will foster a framework for aligning stakeholders around a common approach to lifecycle management. By leveraging global industry standards – like ISO 19650 (Building Information Modeling), ISO 8000 (Data Quality), ISO 41001 (Facility Management Systems), and OSCRE data models – the initiative ensures that buildings are managed with consistency, efficiency and long-term value in mind.

Robert Bray, vice president and general manager of Autodesk Tandem, stated:

Advanced technology solutions, such as digital twins, rely on quality data to deliver powerful insights and 3D visualizations to facility operators. The Building Lifecycle Management Initiative seeks to resolve systemic issues related to data quality that span the building lifecycle.

Dean Stanberry, CFM, SFP, past chair of IFMA’s Global Board of Directors, remarked: The commercial real estate industry has long struggled with inefficiencies due to fragmented data, disconnected systems and short-term decision making. BLMI represents a turning point, providing a structured approach for aligning stakeholders, eliminating waste and unlocking the full potential of the built environment.

To join this movement and shape the future of building lifecycle management, visit Building Lifecycle Management Initiative (BLMI). Register to stay informed, contribute to ongoing discussions, and explore how your organization can participate in advancing industry-wide best practices.

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This standard focuses on the commercial built environment and defines frequencies, objectives, results, principles, and practices to clean, maintain, and restore the built environment. The built environment is defined as materials, building assemblies, structures, furniture, fixtures, and equipment located inside a building envelope.

The ANSI/IICRC S400 Standard includes the following:

• Principles of Cleaning
• Administrative Procedures and Project Documentation
• Safety and Health
• Cleaning Processes
• Cleaning Equipment and Tools, Materials, Chemicals and Supplies
• Quality Assurance and Quality Control
• Limitations, Complexities, Complications and Conflicts

Perry Shimanoff, IICRC S400 Consensus Body Chairman, stated:

On behalf of our entire dedicated team, it is with great pride and excitement that we announce the release of the first-ever ANSI approved standard for the built environment. This landmark achievement represents a significant step forward in supporting professional cleaners by providing a comprehensive and authoritative resource to enhance their expertise. This new Standard is designed to empower cleaning professionals with practical guidance on the current Standard of Care, elevating the industry’s standards and fostering a healthier, safer built environment for all.

Brandon Burton, IICRC Standards Chairman, remarked:

This Standard provides the Commercial Property Maintenance industry with an authoritative resource to ensure Standard of Care in the delivery of cleaning, restoration and maintenance practices.  Thank you to the tremendous effort of the Consensus Body volunteers that have dedicated seven years to the development of this critical document.

To purchase a copy of the new ANSI/IICRC S400: 2025 Standard for Professional Cleaning, Maintenance, and Restoration of the Commercial Built Environment and other standards, visit IICRC Gilmore Global. IICRC standards are also available via the IICRC Standards Subscription website.

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In this study of U.S. building managers and decision makers with more than 250 building occupants, Honeywell found that across property types, respondents are increasingly using AI to help improve process efficiency, productivity and operations. However, since most respondents (92%) reported challenges in hiring skilled, tech-savvy individuals, a greater opportunity remains ahead for building operations to tap into AI’s capabilities to enhance employee training, augment their current workforce and ultimately help upskill labor to support the sector’s rapidly changing needs.

Billal Hammoud, president and CEO of Honeywell’s Building Automation segment,  stated:

AI in buildings is a game-changer that not only helps decision makers potentially maximize operations and efficiencies, but it can also help improve security for guests, minimize energy usage for tenants and reduce costly downtime by flagging issues before they happen. With basic AI functions already integrated into many commercial buildings, leaders should pivot their focus to the upskilling opportunities it presents for employees who can tap into AI to help buildings reduce carbon emissions while being more secure and operationally efficient.

For commercial buildings, Honeywell’s research found that AI has moved beyond experimental and is now becoming mainstream, as evidenced by its increased usage for day-to-day building management. Key findings include:

• Nearly 60% of respondents have already adopted AI to streamline maintenance and repair processes.
  • One of the most common use cases is predictive maintenance, which helps identify issues before they become larger concerns and is currently used by 49% of respondents.
• Security and safety are also top-of-mind for more than half of all respondents.
  • Frequent use cases cited by respondents were monitoring for unusual behavior (63%), location tracking systems for occupant safety (52%) and biometrics-based access control systems (45%).
• Decision makers are turning to AI for everything from temperature control to water usage.
  • More than half (55%) of respondents currently use AI for overall building energy management, 41% use it for water usage monitoring, and 40% implement it for temperature comfort.

To learn more about the AI in Buildings research results and how Honeywell’s solutions are helping buildings deliver stronger operational efficiency and fire and life safety, visit Honeywell’s Building Automation division.

Honeywell commissioned Wakefield Research to conduct the Honeywell Building Managers Research Survey, which polled 250 U.S. building managers and senior decision makers across building types including offices, hospitals, airports, schools, universities, hotels and data centers. To participate in the research, respondents had to use AI-enabled property management systems in buildings with 250+ occupants.

Honeywell is an integrated operating company serving a broad range of industries and geographies around the world. Its business is aligned with three megatrends — automation, the future of aviation and energy transition — underpinned by the Honeywell Accelerator operating system and Honeywell Forge IoT platform. The company helps organizations solve complex challenges, providing actionable solutions and innovations through its Aerospace Technologies, Industrial Automation, Building Automation and Energy and Sustainability Solutions business segments to increase safety, security and sustainability.

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As facilities age, so do the mechanical systems that keep them running efficiently. One of the most critical of all systems is, of course, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning). Not only does the HVAC system play an essential role in maintaining a comfortable and safe environment for occupants, it also protects the integrity of high-value inventory, and in the case of healthcare facilities, ensures safe operating conditions — an absolute matter of life and death. However, more than most elements in the built environment, HVAC systems are often encumbered by deferred maintenance which can lead to higher operating costs, reduced energy efficiency and even catastrophic system failures.

In this article, we’ll explore the risks associated with deferring HVAC maintenance, the challenges of securing budget approval for upgrades, and how building owners and facility managers (FMs) can leverage incentive programs to defray the cost of HVAC system upgrades.

The risks of deferred HVAC maintenance

One of the most significant challenges FMs encounter is deferred maintenance on the HVAC system, the consequences of which can vary widely depending on the type of building and its usage profile.

For critical care facilities such as hospitals, the risk of deferring HVAC maintenance can impair the institutional mission. For example, a hospital’s HVAC system is responsible for cooling sensitive equipment such as MRI machines, as well as maintaining the climate in data centers that store patient information. In these settings, any HVAC system failure or deferred maintenance can have catastrophic consequences.

On the other hand, office buildings typically have a far lower risk profile in the event of an HVAC failure as the building’s occupancy is usually limited to specific hours and temporary measures such as portable cooling or heating units can mitigate the immediate effects of a system outage. However, even in office buildings, deferring maintenance can still be quite costly in the long run—putting such strain on the system can lead to high emergency repairs.  Whether the building is a hospital, office, or manufacturing facility, HVAC systems require regular attention to prevent minor issues from escalating to emergencies. 

Challenges of securing budget approval for upgrades

One of the main reasons the HVAC system goes unaddressed until a failure is the difficulty FMs have in securing budget approvals for proper maintenance. The “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality often prevails amongst the C-Suite, making it difficult for FMs to justify capital expenditures for servicing equipment that may still be functioning, though it is aging.

HVAC systems are designed to last for 15 to 20 years. During this time, FMs likely do their best to keep these systems running. But as an HVAC system ages, it can become inefficient and prone to breakdowns. However, when everything appears to be “working fine,” it can be quite challenging to convince landlords or upper management to approve the necessary budget for ongoing maintenance and periodic upgrades. Such a mindset often means that HVAC systems are only replaced after a major failure occurs, which leads to higher emergency repair costs, operational disruptions, lost productivity and sometimes lost inventory or research and development data.

Incentive programs are a key to unlocking upgrades funding

The good news is that there are a variety of incentive programs available to building owners and facility managers that can significantly offset the cost of HVAC system upgrades. These incentives include utility rebates, government programs, and federal funding opportunities, listed below. Navigating them can be arduous, however, and the application process requires careful planning and timing to maximize benefits.

1. Utility incentives: Many utility companies offer rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient HVAC systems. These rebates are often tied to specific energy-saving targets, such as reducing a building’s total energy consumption or improving system efficiency, mitigating the negative impact on the environment. These programs may be easier to access for smaller-scale projects.
2. Government programs: State government programs offer additional financial support for energy efficiency improvements, yet they also can be complicated to access and may require additional paperwork and property certifications. Still, such programs are an excellent resource for building owners seeking to lower energy consumption.
3. Federal programs: At the federal level, incentives such as tax credits and grants are available to encourage the adoption of energy-efficient technologies in commercial buildings. These programs are typically larger in scope and may cover a portion of the overall cost of a major HVAC system upgrade.

Application process considerations

The application process for these incentives is often complex. For the average commercial project, the approval timeline can range from three to six months. Therefore, if an HVAC system has failed or is near failure, FMs must weigh the time required to apply for these incentives against the urgency of the repair.

One of the best ways to navigate the incentive and rebate maze is to work with an independent service provider who understands which incentive programs are applicable to specific building types and system needs. A qualified service provider can streamline the selection and application process while also maximizing the financial benefit, something that is sure to please the C-Suite and property owners.

How much can incentives cover?

One of the principal factors influencing the decision to upgrade an HVAC system is cost. HVAC systems are inherently expensive, and the upfront capital required for a system replacement can be daunting. Incentive programs help mitigate this cost, but the exact amount awarded can vary widely depending on the program and the building type.

Incentive programs fall into the following categories:

• Prescriptive programs: These programs offer fixed rebates for specific types of HVAC upgrades, such as replacing a 15-ton unit with a higher-efficiency model. The rebate amount is usually fixed per ton of capacity, making it straightforward to calculate the incentive value.
• Custom programs: For larger or more complex projects, custom programs offer incentives based on energy savings or system performance improvements. These programs require a more detailed application process and often include energy audits or engineering analysis.
• Small Business direct install programs: For smaller businesses, many utilities offer direct install programs that cover a significant portion of the installation cost for energy-efficient HVAC systems. These programs are designed to be simple and accessible, allowing small businesses to improve energy efficiency without upfront costs.

While each program has unique metrics and value, building owners can expect to cover a portion of their HVAC system upgrade costs through these incentives. Additionally, low-interest financing options may be available to further ease the financial burden.

A strategic approach to HVAC upgrades

When approaching HVAC upgrades, it’s essential to consider not only the current state of the system but also the long-term maintenance and operational costs.  Building owners and FMs are best advised to take a strategic approach by focusing on whether incremental improvements are possible before undertaking a full system replacement.

Component life expectancy

HVAC systems consist of multiple components, each with a different life expectancy. For example, the motor that drives the fan may last much longer than the compressor that cools the refrigerant. Rather than waiting until the entire system fails, FMs can elect to make incremental improvements, such as adding a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) to an aging motor to extend its lifespan by three to five years. These small upgrades can improve system efficiency while delaying the need for a complete system replacement.

Long-term planning and immediate needs

While short-term fixes can help keep an aging HVAC system running, building owners must also plan for long-term upgrades. Working with service providers that have the expertise to understand the intricacies of a building’s energy and mechanical systems can ensure that any investment in improvements optimally aligns with both immediate and future needs.

Becoming educated about all possible means to extend an HVAC system’s life expectancy and incentive programs that make repairs financially manageable while improving sustainability is critical for FMs who want to ensure smooth and timely budget approvals from their C-Suite team. Further, FMs may also assist management with efforts to persuade commercial landlords about how critical a high-functioning HVAC system is to their business productivity and profitability, a key consideration in real estate leasing decisions. 

While HVAC system upgrades may seem costly and challenging to implement, a combination of strategic planning, leveraging incentives, and making incremental improvements can help improve energy efficiency and sustainability, reduce costs and long-term energy expenses as well as avoid catastrophic system failures that ultimately cost far more than regular maintenance.

Ronald F. Raymond is the founder of RSE Energy Group, a fast-growing Northeast energy solutions provider serving an array of commercial clients, including real estate developers and property management firms, and the healthcare, hospitality, scientific, manufacturing, office, and retail sectors. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Tuskegee University and has completed NJIT’s Construction/Engineering Management Program and NYU’s SCPS Certification in Building HVAC Design. With over 20 years of experience, Raymond is a licensed professional contractor with expertise in mechanical and HVAC engineering, MEP project management, and energy system installation (ESI). RSE offers a comprehensive approach to evaluating MEP, air quality, energy infrastructure construction, engineering, and project management needs.

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ABM Performance Solutions is an innovative approach designed to optimize facility performance, focusing on delivering measurable results that benefit both the building and its occupants. Rather than simply providing passive, cost-centered facility management, ABM Performance Solutions introduces a proactive, customized, and data-driven model. This shift ensures that facility operations go beyond routine maintenance, helping organizations achieve their financial, operational, sustainability, and workplace experience goals. ABM Performance Solutions enhances uptime, output, and long-term efficiency — all with a single point of contact from ABM.

Proactive, outcome-driven facility management

ABM Performance Solutions provides a unified, cohesive team that puts outcomes first. This results in enhanced efficiency across all aspects of your facility. Whether it’s engineering, HVAC, power management, cleaning, landscaping, parking management, or building technology, ABM Performance Solutions integrates these services seamlessly, allowing businesses to reduce costs while improving productivity and sustainability.

ABM is more than a provider — we’re a strategic facility partner. With a wide array of offerings, ABM Performance Solutions ensures that your buildings operate smoothly, efficiently, and sustainably. Additionally, ABM focuses on occupant support, providing services that enhance employee and occupant satisfaction, health, and safety.

Customizable solutions for your facility

ABM Performance Solutions stands out by offering solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Understanding the unique risk profile and long-term goals of a facility allows ABM to create customized services that align with business priorities. By taking a consultative approach, ABM ensures that the solutions are relevant, efficient, and effective in achieving your goals.

Every facility is different, and ABM recognizes that a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t effective. Whether managing capital expenditures or optimizing energy systems, ABM integrates technical expertise and service flexibility to deliver the best outcomes. From microgrid infrastructure to vertical transportation systems, ABM Performance Solutions addresses every aspect of your building’s lifecycle.

The importance of data and technology in facility optimization

Technology is at the heart of ABM Performance Solutions. ABM utilizes predictive analytics, smart building capabilities, and IoT sensors to monitor and optimize facility systems in real time.

ABM Connect is the end-to-end platform that unites all of this. Data from the team member application flows directly into your client platform, allowing you transparency and connectivity into services from ABM. The information gives the operational leaders at ABM the power of data-driven decision making to ensure you benefit from continuous improvement.

This data-driven approach allows ABM to manage assets proactively, minimizing downtime and maximizing performance. Data transparency is key, and ABM provides actionable insights that help businesses track the performance of their facilities over time.

ABM Connect also includes visual dashboards that offer real-time data on everything from energy usage to occupant experience, enabling clients to optimize operations and meet sustainability targets. The integration of data helps organizations stay ahead of challenges, whether it’s energy conservation, carbon footprint reduction, or improving the facility’s environment.

Achieving sustainability goals

ABM Performance Solutions integrates sustainability into every aspect of facility management. To go beyond short-term fixes, ABM focuses on energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact over the long term — making your facility more sustainable.

ABM has already demonstrated success in sustainability initiatives, such as the installation of over 26,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and saving energy every step of the way. Sustainability programs from ABM also help clients meet their sustainability targets while improving indoor air quality for staff and occupants. This commitment to sustainability ensures that facilities not only perform well, but do so in an environmentally responsible way.

Measurable outcomes and cost savings

ABM Performance Solutions ensures that every service has a direct impact on the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of your building. This results in a positive financial impact, with businesses experiencing significant cost savings, reduced operational expenses, and improved ROI. With a single provider managing all services, ABM helps reduce the number of subcontractors and middleman fees, further driving down costs.

In addition to financial savings, ABM Performance Solutions helps businesses extend the life of their buildings and equipment by improving asset management and reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. The proactive approach ensures that businesses can rely on their facilities without disruption, optimizing operations for greater productivity, profitability, and occupant well-being.

Simplified facility management

Managing a facility can be a complex and time-consuming task, especially when multiple subcontractors are involved. ABM Performance Solutions simplifies this by offering a single point of contact for all facility services. In fact, ABM will have an experienced team member on site — this streamlines communication, reduces administrative burdens, and enhances accountability. With one unified team overseeing all aspects of facility management, businesses can focus on their core operations while leaving facility optimization to the experts.

Future-proofing your facility

The ability to future-proof a facility is crucial as organizations navigate changing market conditions, shifting expectations, and evolving technology. ABM Performance Solutions supports businesses in adapting to these changes by providing forward-thinking solutions that anticipate future needs. Whether it’s upgrading HVAC systems for energy efficiency or preparing for increased occupant expectations, ABM helps you stay ahead of the curve.

Why ABM Performance Solutions?

ABM Performance Solutions offers a comprehensive, outcomes-driven approach to facility management. Whether you’re looking to reduce operational costs, meet sustainability goals, or enhance the workplace experience, ABM Performance Solutions provides the tools and expertise needed to achieve all these objectives—and more. With a customized, data-driven approach, ABM ensures that your facility performs at its best, now and in the future.

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