IWFM L3 FM3.01 Introduction to Facilities Management Assessment Questions

FM3.01 Introduction to Facilities Management

Maximum Word Count for the completion of all tasks in this module is 6000.

Task 1

1. Provide a suitable definition for Facilities Management (FM). Building upon this definition, explain where FM fits into the organization of any business, in terms of core and supporting activities. [LO1 AC1, 2]

2. Explain how FM contributes to the list of business activities bulleted below: [LO1 AC3]

   • Meeting end-user requirements

   • Reducing costs

   • Maintaining business continuity

   • Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance

   • Supporting corporate social responsibility

In each case, illustrate your answer by providing examples within your own experience where possible.

Task 2

1. Give at least two examples of both mechanical and electrical assets for which facilities management will be responsible – either within your own area of experience or from a typical FM environment example. For each of these, describe the maintenance requirements. [LO2 AC1]

2. In addition to the assets mentioned above, facilities management is also responsible for the provision of support services. Describe at least three examples of typical FM support services within your own area of experience or from a typical FM environment example. [LO2 AC2]

3. Provide four examples of risks to a business operation presented by the provision of FM services, and explain how FM’s can manage or mitigate those risks through business continuity planning. [LO2 AC3]

Task 3

1. FM can be delivered via a number of different service delivery models, listed below. Explain the characteristics of each, including their advantages and disadvantages. Make reference to cost, quality, compliance and user satisfaction in your answer. [LO3 AC1, 2]

   • In-house

   • Partially outsourced

   • Wholly outsourced

   • TFM

   • PFI

Task 4

1. FM covers a broad range of key management functions in order to support an effective operation. Explain what these are across the following areas: [LO4 AC1]

   • People

   • Financial

   • Contract

   • Asset

   • Project

   • Risk and compliance

   • Health and safety

2. Select three of the management functions in Task 4a. Describe the strategic, tactical and operational level responsibilities associated with each function selected. [LO4 AC2]

Task 5

1. Effective communication skills are a key element of successful FM. What are the key principles of effective communication, including active listening and why it is beneficial. [LO5 AC1, 3]

2. Describe five different methods of communication that an FM could use. For each method provide facilities management examples to demonstrate where its use would be appropriate and inappropriate. [LO5 AC2]