IFMA to Determine Impact of Wireless on FM Profession

Through a new study by the Intl. Facility Management Association (IFMA) Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting research and educational opportunities for the advancement of the facility management profession, the impacts of wireless technology will be revealed. In a press release issued on April 27, IFMA noted how facility managers (FMs) are often tasked with the implementation of new technology that has been selected by executives, even before FMs gain a solid understanding of that technology. The upcoming study will uncover how the inclusion of wireless in respect to audio, video, e-mail, the Internet, data, construction, design, and furnishings is affecting facilities management. “The results of this wireless technology research will assist and enrich facility managers in their quest to provide a quality built environment,” says Sam W. Davidson, IFMA foundation chair. The study and an accompanying white paper will be produced by Baker Robbins & Co., a full-service, independent technology consulting company. Partial funding is being provided by Allsteel, the Muscatine, IA-based workplace furniture solutions provider. Results from the study will be released during IFMA’s 2005 World Workplace Conference and Expo in Philadelphia this October.To find out more about IFMA or this upcoming survey, visit the association’s website (www.ifma.org) or call (713) 623-4362.