FACILITIES MANAGEMENT — THE ALTERNATIVE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY REVOLUTION

The change in the perceived function of Information Technology (IT) within business, from a reactive service for middle management to a creator of strategic advantage, is one of the more visible management issues of the moment. Alongside this, however, is an equally important shift in the perceived relationship between IT and business, which is manifest in the growth of Facilities Management (FM). This service is described, as well as the reasons for its increasing popularity, its applicability and how it compares with developments in other functional areas. It is argued that FM is one of the keys to strategic IT change and, as such, should take its rightful place within the planning process.