Times are tough. It may seem as though the pressure to create value by cutting costs, optimizing building systems, and increasing efficiency has never been greater. With resources scarce, the "do-more-with-less" directive can sometimes be disheartening. Don't despair.
Buildings magazine has been here for you for 102 years, and its team of editors remains dedicated to helping you succeed - even in this tough economy. In 2009, we're introducing a new monthly column aimed at providing information, tips, and step-by-step instruction on how to lower operating costs. Read our inaugural article, focused this month on the payoffs of cleaning lighting fixtures and lamps. I think you'll be surprised by what Managing Editor Leah B. Garris uncovered.
Findings from a recent survey among readers revealed that energy management continues to be of utmost importance to facilities professionals. As a result, expect lots of information on the pages of Buildings magazine throughout the coming year that focuses on increasing energy efficiency and lowering utility bills; this issue's cover story is a good example. Read about commissioning and how it can lower energy consumption while improving building-system efficiency and reliability. As this story will tell you, if you haven't commissioned your building(s) in a while, perhaps it's time. Author and expert Steve Harrell of SSRCx, explains why retro-commissioning and Continuous Commissioning can result in a better bottom line.
Getting the job done and doing it well are two different things. As demands for your time increase, resources seem scarce, and capital is deferred, rally your spirits and rise to the challenge. Find ways to work smarter, not harder. Do more with less money, less energy, and, frankly, fewer headaches. And, if we can help, don't hesitate to let us know how; e-mail me at jana.madsen@buildings.com. We're here to serve you (for at least another century).