Trying to save money by cutting corners can actually cost you more in the long run. Think about it.
In Facilities Management (FM), getting things done right while keeping people happy is key. But for years, FMs have struggled with picking the right service companies that are both good and affordable.
It’s not perfect, but it’s easy to see why people go for cheaper options. Budgets are tight, and everyone wants to cut costs. Facility managers face a tough challenge of doing more with less money. But going cheap can backfire if the service isn’t good enough. On the other hand, top-notch suppliers might charge too much for a level of service that isn’t needed.
So, how can FMs make good choices that balance cost and quality?
1. Know What Poor Quality Really Costs
If you try to save money by cutting corners, it can cost you more in the long run. Think about it:
You’ll have to fix things or redo them often. Stuff will wear out faster, things could get dangerous, your main operations could get stopped or messed up, and the people using the building won’t be happy.
All these things add up, and you end up paying more than if you’d just done it right the first time. Sometimes, paying a bit more to get a good provider is cheaper in the end.
2. Know What You Want
Before you hire anyone, decide exactly what you expect them to do and how well they should do it. This helps you:
Figure out what you’re really getting for your money, and make sure everyone knows what’s supposed to happen. It also makes providers show they can get the job done.
Good isn’t always fancy; it just means it works well, you can rely on it, and it’s always the same.
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3. Use Info and Opinions
Don’t just pick someone because they gave you the lowest price. Look at:
What they’ve done in the past, and what other clients say about them. How fast they respond to issues. How often do they get the job done right? What do the people using the building think? This gives you a real sense of what you’re getting, not just what someone promises.
Read Also >>> Facility Management: Space Utilization and occupancy monitoring – Albert Sarpon
4. Be Partners, Not Just Customers
The best providers aren’t just people you hire – they’re partners. When you understand each other, talk openly, and plan to work together for a long time, it’s easier to:
Make sure everyone’s on the same page, and get better service as time goes on. Adjust to changes in the building and make things better together.
Paying a fair price to a provider who wants you to succeed is good for everyone.
In Faciytly .Management, the best value is when you get quality for the right price. You don’t want to spend too much, but you also don’t want to go with the cheapest option if it means things won’t be done well. If you plan carefully, you can protect your money and keep your building in good shape, which ultimately makes things better for your company (provided your company is in with you).
Instead of asking “How little can we spend?”, let’s ask “How can we get this done well without breaking the bank?”
Credit: Albert Sarpong
