FM3.01 Introduction to Facilities Management
Task 1
a) Provide a suitable definition for Facilities Management (FM). Building upon
this definition, explain where FM fits into the organization of any business, in
terms of core and supporting activities. [LO1 AC1, 2]
b) Explain how FM contributes to the list of business activities bulleted below:
[LO1 AC3]
i. Meeting end-user requirements
ii. Reducing costs
iii. Maintaining business continuity
iv. Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance
v. Supporting corporate social responsibility
In each case, illustrate your answer by providing examples within your own experience where possible.
Task 2
a) Give at least two examples of both mechanical and electrical assets for which
facilities management will be responsible – either within your own area of
experience or from a typical FM environment example. For each of these,
describe the maintenance requirements. [LO2 AC1]
b) In addition to the assets mentioned above, facilities management is also
responsible for the provision of support services. Describe at least three
examples of typical FM support services within your own area of experience or
from a typical FM environment example. [LO2 AC2]
c) Provide four examples of risks to a business operation presented by the
provision of FM services, and explain how FM’s can manage or mitigate those
risks through business continuity planning. [LO2 AC3]
Task 3
a) FM can be delivered via a number of different service delivery models, listed
below. Explain the characteristics of each, including their advantages and
disadvantages. Make reference to cost, quality, compliance and user
satisfaction in your answer. [LO3 AC1, 2]
i. In-house
ii. Partially outsourced
iii. Wholly outsourced
iv. TFM
v. PFI
Task 4
a) FM covers a broad range of key management functions in order to support an
effective operation. Explain what these are across the following areas: [LO4
AC1]
i. People
ii. Financial
iii. Contract
iv. Asset
v. Project
vi. Risk and compliance
vii. Health and safety
b) Select three of the management functions in Task 4a. Describe the strategic,
tactical and operational level responsibilities associated with each function
selected. [LO4 AC2]
Task 5
a) Effective communication skills are a key element of successful FM. What are the
key principles of effective communication, including active listening and why it is
beneficial. [LO5 AC1, 3]
b) Describe five different methods of communication that an FM could use. For
each method provide facilities management examples to demonstrate where its
use would be appropriate and inappropriate. [LO5 AC2]
