In search for the added value of FM: what we know and what we need to learn

TLDR

The concept of added value in facilities management is typically discussed from a single‑discipline perspective. This article seeks to present and compare research perspectives and theoretical reflections from multiple academic fields on the added value of facilities management. The authors employ the FM Value Map, conduct literature reviews across facilities management, corporate real estate, and B2B marketing, and compare conceptualisations within the EuroFM collaboration to deepen understanding of FM’s added value. The study finds that effective relationship management and trust are as crucial as service delivery, underscoring the importance of evidence‑based FM for long‑term recognition.

Abstract

Purpose – This article aims to present and compare research perspectives and theoretical reflections from a variety of academic fields on the concept of added value of facilities management. Design/methodology/approach – The starting point is the so-called FM Value Map, which was presented in a recent article in Facilities by Per Anker Jensen in 2010. The article is a first result of the work in the EuroFM research collaboration group and is based on literature reviews of the most influential journals within the academic fields of facilities management (FM), corporate real estate management and business-to-business marketing. Findings – Good relationship management and building on trust is shown to be equally important as delivering the agreed services. Originality/value – Usually the concept of added value is discussed from a monodisciplinary point-of-view. The different backgrounds of the authors add value to an increased understanding of the added value of FM by comparing and testing different ways of conceptualising this issue. This is of great importance to FM research and evidence-based FM as a sound basis for the long-term recognition of FM.