Try before you buy isn’t always feasible. While companies can often test-drive software or sample a new product to assess the impact to their business, facilities management programs aren’t typically on this list. Through many years of successful facilities management, we’ve learned a lot, including what works and what doesn’t in a facility management program. More fundamentally, we also understand that the decision to outsource this function at all can be both overwhelming and stressful.
To alleviate these concerns and give some visibility to what an outsourced facility management program would look like after it is implemented, a facility management pilot program can sometimes be a good option. In this post, we’ll take you through the benefits of such a program, outline how we design it and share the keys to success.
Why Pilot?
Whether your facility maintenance program is entirely internal or you use a third-party for some maintenance services, making any transition is hard. Any change at an organization-wide level will present hurdles and challenges to overcome – and many unknowns. Since a pilot program isn't permanent, there’s less risk, and there’s an opportunity for learning, improving the solution, and fostering stakeholder relationships. Seeing what an outsourced program looks like at a small scale can really make a difference when weighing your options.
Minimally, a pilot program will allow you to:
Designing the Pilot Program
Facilities management isn’t one-size-fits-all. Many factors impact what will be the best program for your business. A pilot program is a limited introduction to what an outsourced provider can do to prove they can have a real, measurable impact on your program.
We know that program design matters to success – and this design must include goals, timelines, data, and feedback. We aim to drive transparency, reach alignment and shift mindsets. Any change is hard, even that which brings positive returns. We’re careful but confident during the design phase.
Here are the steps we follow to ensure the best foundation for success.
The 10 Essential Steps for Every Pilot Program
Overarching Keys to Success
Two components are integral to every step along the way. The first is organizational readiness and alignment. The pilot program needs sponsorship within your company and a seasoned team in place. It's best to enter into the relationship with objectives and a vision. Healthy communication is critical.
Second is the need to establish milestones to progress the program. Using a structured evaluation process with clear success criteria is essential. Additionally, allowing for flexibility to adjust when necessary is another key component to success.
Is a Facilities Management Pilot Program Right for You?
If you're struggling with this part of your business and confident in your organization’s readiness, a pilot program may be a good option to assess – and prove, on a limited, low-risk scale – if outsourcing your facilities maintenance program is the right direction to purse. Regardless of the outcome, you’ll come away from the experience knowing more about your operations and where the gaps exist.
You can learn more about our facility maintenance pilot programs by contacting us today.