Extract from recent interview with Mobin Sheikh, FM Principal Consultant, by Bill from iCompliance Editorial Team
Bill: Mobin, thank you for joining us today. To start, could you explain the key differences between the conventional Operations and Maintenance (O&M) mindset and the Integrated Facility Management (IFM) approach? Why should FM companies consider transitioning to IFM?
Mobin Sheikh: Cheers, Bill. It’s a pleasure to be here. The conventional O&M mindset is quite fragmented; it focuses mainly on the day-to-day running of facilities—keeping the lights on, so to speak. While that’s important, it’s not strategic. On the other hand, Integrated Facility Management (IFM) is about bringing everything under one umbrella, creating synergies between services like maintenance, cleaning, security, and so on. It’s about looking at the facility as a whole, not just as a collection of separate parts.
Transitioning to IFM allows FM companies to be more proactive, efficient, and cost-effective. ISO 41001 provides the framework to make that transition smoother and more structured. It guides organisations in implementing best practices, ensuring that all aspects of facility management are aligned with the organisation’s goals and objectives.
Bill: That makes a lot of sense. But what are some of the challenges FM companies might face when implementing ISO 41001 for the first time?
Mobin Sheikh: Aye, the biggest challenge is often the change in mindset. Implementing ISO 41001 isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about adopting a new way of thinking. Companies used to the conventional O&M approach might find it difficult to shift to a more holistic view of facilities management.
Another challenge is integrating existing processes and systems into the ISO 41001 framework. It requires a detailed gap analysis to understand where current practices fall short and how they can be improved. For many companies, the initial workload can seem daunting, but it’s essential to remember that the long-term benefits far outweigh these initial hurdles.
Bill: Is ISO 41001 designed only for FM service providers, or can maintenance departments within organisations benefit as well?
Mobin Sheikh: ISO 41001 is versatile, Bill. While it’s a game-changer for FM service providers, it’s equally beneficial for in-house maintenance departments. Any organisation with facilities to manage can benefit from the structured approach ISO 41001 offers. It’s about improving efficiency, reducing costs, and aligning facility management with broader business objectives, whether you’re a service provider or managing your own facilities.
Bill: Interesting. Now, when it comes to implementing ISO 41001, do you think a paper-based approach is effective, or is going paperless with iCompliance Software and iCompliance CAFM a better option?
Mobin Sheikh: In this day and age, going paperless is the way forward, Bill. Paper-based systems are cumbersome and prone to errors—there’s just no getting around it. Implementing ISO 41001 using iCompliance Software and CAFM tools makes the whole process more efficient, transparent, and manageable.
With digital tools, you can track everything in real-time, generate reports at the click of a button, and ensure that everyone is on the same page. It also makes it easier to adapt and update processes as needed, which is crucial in the ever-evolving field of facility management.
Bill: That’s very insightful, Mobin. For companies aiming for ISO 41001 certification, what’s the recipe for success in the certification audit?
Mobin Sheikh: Preparation is key, Bill. First, ensure that your processes are fully aligned with ISO 41001 standards—this means thorough documentation and training for all staff involved. Secondly, internal audits should be conducted regularly to identify any areas that need improvement before the certification audit.
Communication is also critical. Make sure everyone in the organisation understands the importance of ISO 41001 and how it impacts their work. Lastly, use the right tools. iCompliance Software, for instance, can streamline the entire process, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks.
Bill: Looking ahead, what do you see as the future of ISO 41001 in the FM sector over the next 30 years?
Mobin Sheikh: Well, the FM sector is constantly evolving, and ISO 41001 will play a significant role in shaping its future. I foresee ISO 41001 becoming the global standard for facility management. As more organisations adopt it, we’ll see a shift towards smarter, more sustainable facility management practices.
Technology will continue to advance, integrating AI, IoT, and other innovations into facility management. ISO 41001 will need to evolve to incorporate these technologies, but the core principles of efficiency, sustainability, and alignment with organisational goals will remain at its heart. In 30 years, I believe ISO 41001 will be the benchmark for excellence in FM, driving the industry towards greater resilience and adaptability.
Bill: Thank you, Mobin. Your insights are invaluable, and I’m sure our readers will find them extremely helpful as they navigate the complexities of facility management and ISO 41001.
Mobin Sheikh: Anytime, Bill. Happy to share and help push the industry forward.
