A critical review on innovation in facilities management service delivery

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to define facilities management and innovation in generic business contexts and critically discuss the role of innovation in facilities management service delivery.Design/methodology/approachThe research adopts a comprehensive literature review from numerous published sources. All related references were discovered through electronic databases, journals and books.FindingsFM is capable of contributing towards organisational success if it is given the opportunity to exploit new ideas and perform innovative activities that are regularly measured and integrated within the overall business goals or an organisation. To achieve this, it is essential that innovation in FM is given appropriate empowerment and a platform within the boundaries of the organisation's total innovation agenda.Research limitations/implicationsThere are limited literature materials which focused on service innovation particularly in the context of facilities management and its service delivery. Some discussions that are related to multiple contract management are only mentioned but not extensively reviewed in accordance with the scope of the research. One of the constraints is due to the nature of services that are non‐tangible and hard to perceive.Practical implicationsThe study provides in‐depth knowledge on the importance and benefits to an organisation by embracing innovation in facilities management as well as in the delivery of FM services. By tying innovation in FM with the firm's overall innovation agenda, significant improvements are gained through total efficiency in business operations.Originality/valueThe paper provides fresh literature updates on the needs of FM players to embrace innovative ideas and concepts to effectively deliver facility‐related services. The findings indicated here can be used by relevant FM stakeholders to plan and re‐evaluate the role of facilities management functions in their organisations.