Facilities Management News for Building Management Planning : FMLink https://www.fmlink.com/news-category/planning-ad/ Sat, 14 Jun 2025 00:55:58 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://www.fmlink.com/content/uploads/2025/06/cropped-fmlink-favicon-32x32.png Facilities Management News for Building Management Planning : FMLink https://www.fmlink.com/news-category/planning-ad/ 32 32 Key trends shaping the future of work in 2025, revealed by eight global cities https://www.fmlink.com/key-trends-shaping-the-future-of-work-in-2025-revealed-by-8-global-cities/ Fri, 13 Jun 2025 19:37:15 +0000 https://www.fmlink.com/?post_type=news&p=49208 June 13, 2025 — UnGroup has published its latest quarterly trend report: Wish You Were Here – Eight World Cities Shaping the Future of Work. UnGroup is a collection of...

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June 13, 2025 — UnGroup has published its latest quarterly trend report: Wish You Were Here – Eight World Cities Shaping the Future of Work. UnGroup is a collection of brands focused on the future of work and the workplace. It comprises UnWork and Unwired Ventures (WORKTECH Events and WORKTECH Academy).

"Wish You Were Here" report cover, with stamps of 8 world cities shaping the future of work
Image courtesy of UnGroup

Focusing on key global cities such as Singapore, Amsterdam, Dubai, Tokyo, London, New York, Melbourne and Buenos Aires, the report provides deep insights into the evolving nature of work, highlighting significant shifts in workplace strategy, technology adoption, and employee expectations.

As to key trends, the report underscores a surge in hybrid working models: although the return to office is gaining momentum, 85% of organizations are now prioritizing flexible work arrangements, which is reshaping business districts.

It also identifies AI-driven automation as a major driver of efficiency, with 72% of companies integrating artificial intelligence (AI) tools to streamline operations; smart mobility and AI-driven solutions are transforming urban life and the infrastructure.

Sustainability remains a key focus, with businesses increasingly investing in eco-friendly office spaces and carbon-neutral policies; cities are prioritizing sustainability, inclusivity, and connectivity to build a better future

As well as identifying these key trends, the report reveals three core categories of cities:

  • Innovation-led cities (e.g., Singapore, Amsterdam, Dubai) are rapidly evolving and heavily investing in innovation and people.
  • Steadily evolving cities (e.g., Tokyo, London) are leveraging their size and resources for gradual change.
  • Adaptive cities (e.g., New York, Melbourne, Buenos Aires) are showing resilience and adapting to pressures.

Commenting on the findings, Philip Ross, CEO of UnGroup (UnWork, WORKTECH and WORKTECH Academy), stated:

Work is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Organizations must embrace innovation, from AI-powered workplaces to dynamic hybrid strategies, to stay competitive. Our report provides a roadmap for leaders navigating this rapidly changing landscape.

By taking a deeper dive into eight world cities, this report aims to show how a greener, smarter, more inclusive and more connected urban future is being built in specific locations and under specific conditions. Businesses that adapt to these trends, and successfully align technology, culture, and sustainability will be best positioned for long-term success.

Wish You Were Here: Eight World Cities Shaping the Future of Work is available to WORKTECH Academy members (others may join today to access it).

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Survey of six countries reveals the open office falls short for today’s workforce https://www.fmlink.com/survey-of-six-countries-reveals-the-open-office-falls-short-for-todays-workforce/ Mon, 09 Jun 2025 19:55:40 +0000 https://www.fmlink.com/?post_type=news&p=49253 June 9, 2025 — The fully open plan office, once hailed as the future of collaborative work, is no longer fit for purpose in the hybrid, post-pandemic workplace, according to...

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June 9, 2025 — The fully open plan office, once hailed as the future of collaborative work, is no longer fit for purpose in the hybrid, post-pandemic workplace, according to a new report from Crown Workspace, which surveyed 1,250 office workers and facilities decision-makers across the UK, U.S.,Singapore, India, New Zealand, and Hong Kong.

large room with big windows and conference table
Conference room image courtesy of Crown Workspace

The report, commissioned by Crown Workspace, an expert in everything from office removal to workspace refresh, and full refurbishment, reveals a growing disconnect between the design of today’s offices and the evolving needs of their occupants.

Office attendance: preference vs reality

A staggering 91% of employees say they would return to the office more often if the space better supported their needs, highlighting a clear opportunity for businesses to reimagine their work environments. Yet there’s a noticeable disconnect between attendance and employee preferences: while 59% currently work in the office full-time, only 41% say they actually prefer to. Nearly half (47%) favor a hybrid model, reflecting the growing demand for greater flexibility.

Despite this shift, the office still holds value. A full 45% of employees report feeling more productive in the office compared to just 25% at home.

How environment and design are impacting productivity

publication image with orange triangle and 2 women talking
Report image courtesy of Crown Workspace

Open-plan office spaces may have once been seen as a solution for collaboration, but the reality is they often fall short, especially when it comes to supporting creativity and productivity. Three quarters (75%) of employees say that the furniture, layout and flexibility of their office space have a significant impact on their well-being and performance, yet fewer than one in four (24%) feel their current setup actually supports those outcomes. The message is clear: employees want spaces that work with, not against, how they focus and create.

Quiet zones and personalized workspace are high on the wish-list — 67% say access to quiet areas is essential, while 77% value having a dedicated workspace. A further 70% believe having a designated desk with a personalized setup (rather than hot-desking) is critical to a positive office experience. For businesses looking to boost productivity, creativity and a meaningful return to the office, designing workspaces that prioritize focus, ownership, and comfort is essential.

While the survey shows collaborative, open spaces can be positive for offices, it also suggests companies and organizations have neglected the role of quiet spaces for some time.

The role of technology

Employees may be less productive at home simply because they don’t have access to the same equipment they use in the office. Notably, more than a third of employees (36%) only have access to a second monitor at work, highlighting the workplace’s advantage in providing specialized tech resources. Similarly, 40% of employees say they only have access to a printer in the office, compared to just 5% who have access to one exclusively at home — further reinforcing the gap in essential tools between remote and in-office setups.

Other tools, such as industry-specific equipment, are also largely office-based — 58% of employees report having access to these only in the office, compared to just 4% who have access to them exclusively at home.

The future — flexible, focused, and fit for purpose

Looking ahead, 76% of facilities managers say they expect to create more interactive and engaging office environments within the next three years. Many are also evolving how they use space — storing desk equipment, furniture, and safety supplies off-site to make room for new layouts that better suit hybrid and collaborative workstyles.

Interestingly, 48% of facilities managers expect to downsize their office during the same period. This trend may be driven by evolving workplace dynamics in the wake of the pandemic. As Phil Oram, UKI regional director at Crown Workspace, explains:

Since the pandemic, the physical space that an office occupies has come under greater scrutiny. With fewer people in the office, it’s more important than ever to design Workspace around the needs of the workforce. At the same time, organizations must plan for a more sustainable future, aligning with global sustainability goals. As offices downsize, equipment doesn’t need to be discarded — there are real opportunities to upcycle and recycle, giving these items a second life.

The verdict? Reimagine or retire the open office

Commenting on the findings from the report, Oram continued:

Our research shows that the modern workforce wants more from their office environments. Employees are looking for spaces that support both wellbeing and performance. Despite decades of popularity, the fully open office consistently falls short—failing to provide the quiet and personalized spaces people need to thrive. The future of the successful office will need to be flexible, functional, and above all, designed with people in mind. It’s time for employers to rethink their approach and take decisive steps to create Workspace that truly support their people—because when employees thrive, businesses do too.

The report, Is It Time to Kill the Open Office, for Good? (PDF), is available from Crown Workspace.

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FMs face greater workloads and budget challenges, yet job satisfaction remains high, finds MRI Software report https://www.fmlink.com/fms-face-greater-workloads-and-budget-challenges-yet-job-satisfaction-remains-high-finds-mri-software/ Wed, 04 Jun 2025 07:33:18 +0000 http://v4.fmlink.client.tagonline.com/fms-face-greater-workloads-and-budget-challenges-yet-job-satisfaction-remains-high-finds-mri-software/ June 4, 2025 — Facility management (FM) professionals are encountering greater workloads, more responsibilities, and numerous budgetary challenges, yet job satisfaction within the industry remains steadfastly high. That’s according to...

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Image courtesy of MRI Software

June 4, 2025 — Facility management (FM) professionals are encountering greater workloads, more responsibilities, and numerous budgetary challenges, yet job satisfaction within the industry remains steadfastly high. That’s according to the Voice of the Facilities Manager report from PropTech firm MRI Software

Key findings of the in-depth report include:

  • Workloads and responsibilities have increased over the last three years, but operating budgets have not kept pace. 
  • Nevertheless, 76% of respondents stated that they are happy with the flexibility and job security of their roles. Furthermore, 82% expect to be working in the industry in three years’ time.
  • Emerging trends such as hybrid work and flexible workplaces have not led to major disruptions, in contrast to what industry insiders might have expected.
  • FMs recognize the promise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of things (IoT), but adoption of these technologies has been limited.

FMs are facing a lot of stress, but they are rising above it. On one hand, increased workloads are a positive sign because they suggest that decision-makers recognize FM as a business imperative. However, technology investment is essential to support the growing responsibilities of facilities managers.

As FM-related data becomes more valuable for strategic decision-making, technology initiatives will gain momentum.

Carla Hinson, VP North America Solutions and Innovation at MRI Software

More than 100 facility managers across North America participated in the survey, which MRI conducted between December 2024 and January of 2025. Respondents represented a variety of demographics and roles within facility management. 

Download the Voice of the Facilities Manager report from MRI Software.

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FMs and designers at NeoCon 2025 can learn about decarbonization, wellness, material recovery, building products, and design data https://www.fmlink.com/fms-and-designers-at-neocon-2025-can-learn-about-decarbonization-wellness-material-recovery-building-products-and-design-data/ Wed, 04 Jun 2025 07:04:55 +0000 http://v4.fmlink.client.tagonline.com/fms-and-designers-at-neocon-2025-can-learn-about-decarbonization-wellness-material-recovery-building-products-and-design-data/ June 4, 2025 — NeoCon 2025 will offer on-site educational programming, presented by world-class experts on the latest strategies, emerging technologies, sustainable practices, and compelling concepts from leading associations, universities,...

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June 4, 2025NeoCon 2025 will offer on-site educational programming, presented by world-class experts on the latest strategies, emerging technologies, sustainable practices, and compelling concepts from leading associations, universities, architecture and design firms, manufacturers, and media outlets. In addition, there will be over 60 virtual CEU seminars addressing relevant and pressing topics. All NeoCon CEU Sessions, on-site and virtualare $50 each or $45 each with a purchase of 5 or more sessions. You can register for and watch the sessions on-demand June 9 through October 1, 2025.

Each session is 60 minutes. Sessions are approved for 1 CEU for Designers and 1 LU for Architects. Certificates are available post session after completing a 10-question quiz.

Commercial facility management, real estate and design topics are addressed in these NeoCon on-site sessions in the tracks for Workplace/Sustainability/Industry Directions:

Good Leads the Way: United Airlines Headquarters Decarbonization Journey: The renovation and restack of 13 floors at the United Airlines headquarters in Chicago created a hybrid workplace infused with a dynamic energy that reinforces employee pride. This space brings together staff through shared experiences connected to United’s brand story: an airline where Good Leads the Way.

Wellness Real Estate: Supercharging Transformation & Growth: Wellness is emerging as a critical catalyst for growth. This on-site CEU will explore how design that intentionally supports the holistic health of users elevates individual and community well-being and unlocks significant market opportunities. Drawing from Gensler’s research, the session will define and survey a $580 billion U.S. Wellness Real Estate Market and its expansion across the workplace, multifamily residential, hospitality, and retail sectors.

Transforming Buildings into Material Resources: Demolition projects have a significant impact on climate change due to the energy and resources required, as well as the emissions created during the process. Material recovery through deconstruction is an unparalleled opportunity for reducing embodied carbon, while also diverting construction waste, reducing exposure to toxic pollutants, protecting natural resources, and creating green jobs.

How Can Science Make Us All More Creative. Really. In an era where information floods our senses and technology reshapes thinking patterns, the ability to focus has become a precious resource. Our physical surroundings play a key role in enhancing or hindering individual and group creative capabilities. This session explores how scientific research into environmental psychology is leveraged to create spaces that support focus and creativity. From ambient sounds to colors, natural materials, light, and spatial configuration, our environments shape creative potential. Understanding these principles isn’t just about designing better workplaces—it’s about creating environments that help navigate information while maintaining the clarity for innovative thinking.

Virtual sessions in the facilities management track:

Attendees watch programming on THE MART’s Marshall’s Landing.

FF&E Changes in Sports Spaces: Mercedes-Benz Stadium Clubs: Using case study examples from Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s Field Level VIP Clubs, this panel will take a deep dive into navigating the changing landscape of furniture in public assembly spaces. The dynamic group of experts will discuss client expectations and best practices for specifying the right product for the application – extending beyond aesthetics and considering factors such as durability, mobility, accessibility and functionality. As conversions teams are constantly reconfiguring spaces, the session will address approaches to finishes and features to facilitate versatile, multi-use public environments, and to deliver high quality visitor experiences. This panel will discuss how to champion sustainability and community connections. Panelists will underscore proactive communication across the project’s lifecycle, best practices for engaging complex stakeholder networks and a pipeline for continued client communication after installation and solving for arising issues.

Moving Towards Circularity: A Playbook for Sustainable Furniture Planning & Specifications: Think sustainable furniture planning has to be overwhelming, costly or impractical? Think again! This session empowers facility owners, designers, and specifiers with tools and strategies to simplify sustainability and make a measurable impact–and (gasp!) maybe even enjoy the process.

ART on THE MART is a featured display during NeoCon.

Discover how informed selections, certified materials, and sustainable practices lead to smarter choices that boost durability, extend furniture life, and keep items out of landfills–while saving money and improving budget efficiency. We’ll guide you through RFPs, procurement, and change management, transforming these steps into powerful tools for creating healthier spaces and minimizing environmental harm.

Whether you’re tackling large-scale projects or refining your specification process, this session offers practical strategies to achieve financial savings. Leave with fresh ideas, useful tools, and the confidence to make impactful decisions that save resources and create lasting value.

The Industry Directions, Sustainability and Wellness tracks feature these sessions:

Behavior by Design: Can Design Make Us Better People?: Beyond aesthetics, well designed environments impacts everyone and enables us to enjoy: Improved wellbeing, business and medical outcomes; reduced isolation loneliness and crime; safe neighborhoods and strong communities. Conversely, bad design can interfere with all of these. Data collected in & on spaces reveals correlations between spatial design and human behavior. Can designers tune design for desired human behavior? Should we? Who decides? This session will present projects and research that illustrate the outcome of spatial design on its occupants and the potential for design-orchestrated behavior. The session will invite audience members into discussion on the implications for the possible future of design.

Building Products Selection & Procurement: The release of LEED V5 this year represents the boldest major update for materials and products in over a decade. The material selection landscape is changing each day, and those designing as well as specifying finishes, furniture, flooring, etc. are placing a critical lens on the process taken to affect change in the built environment. This session will cover what’s new for V5 and how to maximize points in the new rating system. You will hear from USGBC staff and members of the LEED Technical Advisory Group who helped launch the new rating system. USGBC will discuss the Building Product Selection & Procurement credit, which is rooted in the impact areas of LEED Version 5. Members of the Materials & Resources Technical Advisory Group will address the ways in which the criteria areas, which have been intentionally aligned with the Mindful Materials Common Materials Framework, will impact the industry from the perspective of those designing, specifying and manufacturing.

Haworth, an exhibitor, with its South Lobby display.

Creating Long-Term Value from the Experience Design Process: When architecture, interior design, technology, signage, and service design are coordinated separately, the result is a fragmented experience for users. And as organizations expand, this siloed approach to design results in a broader sense of inconsistency, affecting trust, loyalty, and satisfaction. The solution to this fragmentation and inconsistency is experience design: an integrated, human-centered, place-oriented approach that brings all design disciplines together. While many organizations are going through the process of experience design, they are missing a crucial piece of the puzzle: how to maintain that value over time. The key? Experience design guidelines that turn experiential thinking into a set of actionable and adaptable outcomes. This session explores how both organizations and designers can create, implement, and continuously update experience design guidelines to maximize long-term ROI.

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IFMA urges Congress to preserve Energy Star and other critical building sector programs https://www.fmlink.com/ifma-urges-congress-to-preserve-energy-star-and-other-critical-building-sector-programs/ Tue, 03 Jun 2025 16:08:48 +0000 https://v4.fmlink.client.tagonline.com/?post_type=news&p=49055 May 18, 2025 — In response to reports that the Trump Administration is considering terminating the Energy Star program, the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) strongly urges the U.S. Congress...

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IFMA logo with red, navy and light blueMay 18, 2025 — In response to reports that the Trump Administration is considering terminating the Energy Star program, the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) strongly urges the U.S. Congress to support the continuation of Energy Star and other essential programs that serve the building sector.

For decades, IFMA has recognized and championed the business case for energy efficiency — highlighting its role in enhancing U.S. economic competitiveness, reducing environmental waste and strengthening national security.

Consumers and businesses alike rely on Energy Star ratings when making informed decisions about appliances and equipment. Eliminating this publicly funded resource without consulting the industries and individuals who depend on it is shortsighted and irresponsible. Dean Stanberry, immediate past chair of IFMA

Facility managers face the realities of energy management every day. Commercial buildings are among the largest consumers of electricity in the United States, making them key targets for energy-saving opportunities. Facility managers not only reduce operational costs through energy-efficient strategies but also educate building occupants on best practices and emerging technologies.

Energy Star is not just for U.S. households — it’s a global benchmark with far-reaching influence across commercial facilities of every type. From HVAC systems to lighting, life safety equipment and manufacturing tools, Energy Star provides independent, trusted confirmation of quality and efficiency. Facility managers, building owners and employers depend on this program to maintain healthy, sustainable workplaces that support core business functions. Michael V. Geary, CAE, President & CEO of IFMA

IFMA says it remains committed to collaborating with policymakers and industry stakeholders worldwide to promote efficiency, innovation and sustainability in the built environment.

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Enjoy tax and energy savings with the right ceiling solutions https://www.fmlink.com/enjoy-tax-and-energy-savings-with-the-right-ceiling-solutions/ Tue, 27 May 2025 13:45:49 +0000 https://v4.fmlink.client.tagonline.com/?post_type=news&p=42814 Thanks to recent innovation pairing mineral fiber ceiling panels with phase change material technology (PCM), architects, designers, facility managers (FMs) and other key players in construction and renovation projects are...

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Thanks to recent innovation pairing mineral fiber ceiling panels with phase change material technology (PCM), architects, designers, facility managers (FMs) and other key players in construction and renovation projects are re-thinking the role ceilings play in supporting environmental objectives, especially energy savings. As a space warms — typically during the day when it is occupied or receives sunlight — the crystalized PCM encased in the ceiling gradually dissolves, passively cooling the space while it absorbs heat. As the room cools at night or during low-occupancy times, the stored heat is released into the space and the PCM re-solidifies. In this way, heat transfers naturally into and out of the ceiling panels at 72 degrees, allowing it to be effective for both cooling and heating.

Office setting, highlighting PCM ceiling panels
Armstrong Living Lab: PCM ceiling panels support thermal comfort with no mechanics, energy expenditure, or fossils fuels to burn. Image courtesy of AWI

Energy savings of up to 15%

Advantages of PCM ceiling panels stem from the fact that they support thermal comfort with no mechanics, energy expenditure, or fossils fuels to burn! A valuable, sustainable solution for a world prioritizing decarbonization, ceiling panels with PCM technology can reduce energy costs and consumption by as much as 15%.* By enabling energy savings, these ceilings offer advantages including:

  • Reduced reliance on fossil-fuel powered HVAC systems
  • Less wear on HVAC systems — critical to facilities with aging systems and strict budgets
  • Improved thermal comfort — especially well-suited for changing climates or environments with daily hot-cold fluctuations
  • Ability to enhance indoor environmental quality with features like acoustical sound blocking and absorption
  • Easy installation and little-to-no maintenance

Energy-saving ceiling products also fit into the thermal comfort portion of the WELL Building Standard and can contribute to energy and atmosphere credits for LEED.

Up to 50% in tax credits

While the above advantages can work to help a facility realize ongoing savings related to lower energy consumption and less reliance on mechanical heating and cooling — a project owner can get a “head start” on cost benefits because PCM ceiling panels qualify for certain tax credits. Projects utilizing energy-saving ceiling panels may qualify for Investment Tax Credit (ITC) 48E, which was introduced under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and offers tax incentives for investments in clean energy technologies. Because of their thermal energy storage properties, most projects using PCM ceiling panels may qualify:

  • Up to 40% federal tax credit
  • Additional 10% tax credit if the project is deployed in an “Energy Community.” (i.e., a Brownfields site or fossil-fuel-dependent community)

When investing in energy-saving ceilings for a project, consider a solution that helps you maximize tax savings opportunities. For example, when installing an Armstrong Templok Energy Saving Ceiling, the ceiling panels, and associated grid, trim, and labor all qualify for tax credits under ITC 48E. Moreover, these panels are made in the U.S.A. of domestic and global content, meeting a requirement for additional tax savings.**

Qualifying energy saving ceiling projects include those of taxpayers and non-taxpaying entities and span multiple sectors, including:

  • Public — such as government entities
  • Private — corporations, healthcare facilities and others
  • Education — K-12 and higher education
  • 501 (c)(3) charitable organizations

The list of ideal projects is extensive and includes K-12 schools, public and private universities, dorms, museums, hospitals, nonprofit offices/facilities, military bases, courthouses, faith-based buildings, convention centers, and arenas — to name a few. In addition to getting information from the ceiling manufacturer, it’s important to consult your tax advisor to confirm qualification of your project.

More affordable, more sustainable

Thanks to tax credits, the use of energy-saving ceilings could make your next construction or renovation project more affordable. And, with PCM technology helping reduce energy costs, the impact on your bottom line won’t stop there. You can learn more about energy saving ceilings and related tax credits by visiting Armstrong Ceilings.

Notes:

  • *Cooling energy savings according to research estimates measured in lab tests. Results may vary.
  • ** This article lists various federal tax credits and deductions that your project may qualify for when purchasing Armstrong TEMPLOK Energy Saving Ceilings. Please consult your own tax attorney or advisor.
  • LEED is a registered trademark of the U.S. Green Building Council; WELL Building Standard is a trademark of the Well Building Institute.

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Chicago Public Schools is first to earn Gold under Healthy Green Schools & Colleges Standard https://www.fmlink.com/chicago-public-schools-is-first-to-earn-gold-under-healthy-green-schools-colleges-standard/ Thu, 22 May 2025 18:05:58 +0000 http://v4.fmlink.client.tagonline.com/chicago-public-schools-is-first-to-earn-gold-under-healthy-green-schools-colleges-standard/ Healthy Schools Campaign has just announced that Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has achieved Gold Certification under the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges (HGSC) Standard, becoming the first school district in...

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Healthy Schools Campaign has just announced that Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has achieved Gold Certification under the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges (HGSC) Standard, becoming the first school district in the nation to be awarded this prestigious recognition.

This milestone marks a powerful step forward in the national movement to create healthier, more sustainable learning environments through best-in-class facilities management practices.

Healthy Green Schools & Colleges is a first-of-its-kind national framework that provides a practical framework to help districts work towards and celebrate a set of goals related to improving indoor air quality, protecting the health of students and staff, and reducing their overall environmental footprint. 

HGSC certification not only provides national recognition but also offers a practical roadmap for the process of pursuing more sustainable operations. School districts and higher education institutions choose to participate in this program and work towards certification in order to make their schools healthier for students, staff and the environment. HGSC certification is a symbol of this commitment, achievement, and leadership.

Chicago public schools’ journey to certification

Chicago Public Schools’ Gold Certification, achieved by earning an impressive 90 of 100 possible points, is the result of dedicated effort to elevate facility management practices and align operations with the HGSC Standard in the 500+ schools across the district. 

Before adopting the HGSC standard, CPS had initiated efforts to centralize and standardize its procurement processes. Previously, supply procurement was managed by a third-party Integrated Facility Management (IFM) vendor, which limited the district’s transparency and control over the quality and standards of purchased supplies and chemicals. While CPS was developing internal best practices, the absence of a recognized third-party standard hindered the program’s credibility and trust among building occupants.

Greener paper, smarter purchasing

One of the standout achievements in CPS’s journey was its work in the Procurement – Consumables Goods category, and in particular its toilet tissue purchasing. Through an analysis of its consumable goods expenditures, CPS identified that a substantial portion of its budget — over $20,000 per week — was allocated to bath tissue. While the bath tissue in use complied with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines, it did not carry the Green Seal or UL Ecologo certification required for HGSC compliance.

To address this gap, CPS collaborated closely with its supply chain partners to identify cost-effective, compliant alternatives. Central to this effort was CPS’s partnership with Cintas, a key vendor in its weekly supply program. By actively engaging Cintas in the HGSC certification process, CPS successfully transitioned to a Green Seal-certified bath tissue that not only met HGSC standards but was also more cost-effective than the previously used product. This strategic shift not only enhanced compliance but also yielded significant cost savings for the district.

Integrating technology solutions

In addition to sustainable procurement, CPS’s success was also enabled by its integration of cutting-edge technology to manage operations across more than 500 school buildings. The district has invested in a suite of tools to support performance, quality assurance, and real-time communication:

  • Corrigo CMMS: for work orders, ongoing maintenance, and asset tracking
  • Oracle EAM: for tracking facility data like room size, square footage, and flooring
  • CrowdComfort Cleaning Software: for cleaning validation, mobile communication, and performance metrics

CPS also provided Android smartphones to all custodial staff to improve workflow and ensure process documentation through the CrowdComfort app installed on each device. This allows personnel to:

  • Track and document daily and extra cleaning routines
    Submit work orders and report broken or missing supplies
  • Upload photos for quality assurance and cleaning validation
  • Integrate with Corrigo for maintenance coordination

This tech-enabled approach allows CPS to monitor cleaning performance in real time, deploy resources more strategically, and reward personnel for consistent and improving results, all while aligning with the HGSC’s requirements.

A model for the nation

The story of CPS proves what’s possible when a district commits to raising the bar for health, sustainability, and operational excellence. By aligning with the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges Standard, CPS has:

  • Improved indoor air quality and environmental responsibility
  • Strengthened stakeholder trust and transparency
  • Demonstrated that sustainability and cost savings can go hand in hand

HSC congratulates Chicago Public Schools on this incredible achievement, and looks forward to more school districts and higher education institutions following their lead.

Learn more about the Healthy Green Schools & Colleges program and how your school can get involved, at HGSC.

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Bond program funds major renovations and a new Career and Technical Education building for high school in Texas https://www.fmlink.com/bond-program-funds-major-renovations-and-a-new-career-and-technical-education-building-for-high-school-in-texas/ Wed, 21 May 2025 21:48:40 +0000 http://v4.fmlink.client.tagonline.com/bond-program-funds-major-renovations-and-a-new-career-and-technical-education-building-for-high-school-in-texas/ May 21, 2025 – Duncanville Independent School District (DISD) in Texas recently celebrated a major milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony for the addition of its new Career and Technical Education...

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May 21, 2025Duncanville Independent School District (DISD) in Texas recently celebrated a major milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony for the addition of its new Career and Technical Education (CTE) building at Duncanville High School.

Photo credit: LAN

The CTE addition groundbreaking ceremony marked a key step forward in the Duncanville High School renovations and CTE expansion project, part of the district’s $170 million 2023 bond program. The total project cost for the CTE addition project is estimated at $63.6 million and will be completed in July 2027. National planning, engineering and program management firm Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam (LAN) serves as program manager for the bond program.

The new CTE addition will provide expanded space to align and grow existing career and technical education programs. Once completed, the facility will enhance the district’s ability to prepare students for post-secondary education and workforce readiness.

This project represents a significant investment in the future of Duncanville students. We are honored to partner with Duncanville ISD in delivering a facility that supports career pathways and creates new learning opportunities.

JP Grom, vice president and business group director at LAN

Duncanville High School, the second-largest high school campus in the United States, will undergo substantial renovations as part of the bond program. Other projects in the bond package include architectural upgrades, HVAC unit replacements, roof replacements, Americans with Disabilities Act compliance updates and exterior enhancements. The comprehensive project aims to modernize facilities while supporting the district’s growing academic programs.

DISD serves approximately 11,915 students across 19 campuses, including nine elementary schools, three intermediate schools, three middle schools, one high school and two alternative campuses. The district serves the city of Duncanville and portions of Dallas, Cedar Hill and DeSoto.

Find out more about DISD’s campus renovation projects and bonds and LAN’s Higher Education services online.

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GSA, OMB, NASA, DoD overhaul federal purchasing rules https://www.fmlink.com/gsa-omb-nasa-dod-overhaul-federal-purchasing-rules/ Wed, 21 May 2025 16:03:32 +0000 http://v4.fmlink.client.tagonline.com/gsa-omb-nasa-dod-overhaul-federal-purchasing-rules/ May 21, 2025 — In a move to rein in government inefficiency and protect taxpayer dollars, President Trump launched the most significant update to federal purchasing rules in over four...

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May 21, 2025 — In a move to rein in government inefficiency and protect taxpayer dollars, President Trump launched the most significant update to federal purchasing rules in over four decades on April 16. To support that initiative, on May 6, the General Services Administration (GSA) published the new Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO) page at Acquisition.gov. The RFO’s goal is to modernize the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), the rulebook agencies follow when buying everything from software to military equipment.

Navy blue squareGSA logo

This effort, directed under Executive Order, is being led by the Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP) in partnership with the GSA, Department of Defense (DoD), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as members of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Council. The RFO website promotes  transparency in the deregulation process and aligns with the efforts to accelerate procurement, reduce costs and increase competition, says OMB.

The Revolutionary FAR Overhaul Initiative intends to eliminate unnecessary regulations, speed up procurement and enable agencies to deliver better results with fewer resources. The overhaul will:

  • Eliminate non-statutory and duplicative regulations;
  • Remove DEI and “wokeness;” and
  • Remove burdensome requirements and adopt straightforward buyer guides.

The overhaul changes how the government partners with the private sector to accelerate innovation and promote competition, says GSA. It puts the focus only on what’s legally required, and trimming excess, to provide value for taxpayers.

To support immediate progress, the FAR Council will issue streamlined versions of the Federal Acquisition Regulation to help agencies start “buying smarter” right away. These simplified rules will be published on the new FAR Overhaul page at Acquisition.gov. The goal is a competitive and responsive federal marketplace.

In addition to regulatory reform, the initiative includes the development of buying guides — practical, category-specific resources that help agencies make better purchasing decisions in areas like technology, infrastructure and national defense. The first guide will focus on Software as a Service (SaaS), with more to follow.

These resources are being built with feedback from the acquisition workforce and will evolve into interactive tools that deliver real-time guidance and insights. The RFO Initiative invites public input. Everyone will be able to track updates and offer feedback through Acquisition.gov, ensuring the process remains transparent and accountable. Feedback will help shape formal rule changes and ensure the final system works in practice, not just on paper, says GSA.

For more information and ongoing updates, visit the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul page at Acquisition.gov.

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Universal Fiber Systems announces new CEO, Jonathan Craig, to lead UFS into its next chapter https://www.fmlink.com/universal-fiber-systems-announces-new-ceo-jonathan-craig-to-lead-ufs-into-its-next-chapter/ Sun, 18 May 2025 19:56:56 +0000 https://v4.fmlink.client.tagonline.com/?post_type=news&p=42526 May 18, 2025 — Universal Fiber Systems (UFS), a global leader in high-quality synthetic fiber production and technologies, has announced the appointment of Jonathan Craig as chief executive officer. Craig...

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May 18, 2025 — Universal Fiber Systems (UFS), a global leader in high-quality synthetic fiber production and technologies, has announced the appointment of Jonathan Craig as chief executive officer. Craig brings more than 15 years of executive leadership experience in the polymers industry, with a proven record of driving growth, innovation and operational excellence.

The Universal Fiber Systems team and Board of Directors are excited to welcome Jonathan Craig as our new CEO. Jonathan’s extensive expertise in fiber technologies and global business strategy, shaped by key leadership roles within our supply chain ecosystem, makes him an excellent choice to lead UFS into its next chapter.

Marc Ammen, outgoing CEO and Executive Board Chair

Craig succeeds Marc Ammen, who is retiring after over fifteen years as CEO and twenty-five years with Universal Fiber Systems. Under Ammen’s leadership, UFS achieved significant growth, establishing global manufacturing sites and completing key acquisitions, including Sapona Yarns and Fiber Innovation Technologies. Ammen will continue to serve as Executive Chair of the Board of Directors.

Craig joins Universal Fiber Systems from Ascend Performance Materials, where he most recently served as Vice President of Polymers and Fibers. During his tenure, he was instrumental in delivering significant profit growth by driving operational efficiency, customer-focused innovation, and industry-leading sustainability initiatives. He led the transformation of a specialty chemicals division and previously held senior roles in supply chain and finance at Ascend. Earlier in his career, Craig also held leadership positions at Bigler LP and Biogen Idec.

His appointment comes at a pivotal time for UFS, as the company expands its global footprint and now serves twenty-seven end markets through targeted investments and strategic acquisitions.

I’m honored to join Universal Fiber Systems and lead such a talented and dedicated team. UFS has a strong history of innovation and serving diverse customer needs. I’m excited to build on that legacy and work closely with our teams and customers to create meaningful solutions for the future. This opportunity is not just a professional milestone but also a meaningful transition for my family. I’m grateful for the support of my wife Elizabeth and our four children as we begin this next chapter together.

Jonathan Craig

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