Abstract
Facilities management (FM) “is evolving as a consequence of the introduction of new technologies that can enhance the capabilities of roles devoted to the management of structures. These new technologies are considered to increase the effectiveness of FM. Meanwhile, the implementation of various digital technologies in facility management has shown great potential for growth. Furthermore, the study indicated that the deployment of digital technologies improves the management of facilities while creating new sets of risks. Therefore, the aim of the study is to assess risk management in the digitalization of facility management in South Africa. Thus, this research is aimed at improving knowledge based on the impacts and strategies for mitigating the risks associated with the digitalization of facility management in South Africa. The study adopted a quantitative approach for data collection. The data used in this study was derived from primary sources using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed using Google Forms. Out of the 200 questionnaires distributed, 166 were returned, representing an 83% response rate. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean item score and standard deviation), multivariate statistics (exploratory factor analysis), and Cronbach's alpha reliability test. The findings revealed that building information modeling, drone technology, geographic information systems, and building automation systems are digital technologies used in facilities management.
The study also revealed that facility management risks can be classified as operational, legal, socioeconomic, technological, and human. The study also shows that the impacts of the risks associated with the digitalization of FM are classified into four principal factors, which are disruption in business operations, breached security, equipment damage, and loss in productivity. Lastly, the study indicated that there are various mitigation strategies used to manage risks associated with the digitalization of facility management that are categorized into four principal factors, which include employee upskilling and clear contractual obligations, backup strategy and adequate network security techniques, definitive equipment maintenance and adequate change management, and demonstrability of results. The study recommends that the government, relevant professional bodies, and stakeholders embrace and encourage the adoption of digital technology across the board through awareness, education, and training on its principles and approaches. The inclusion of digitalization of facility management in the university curriculum should be considered, and the government should invest more in innovative ways of improving facility management using technology. Clear policy and legislation should be formulated to support the implementation of digital technologies in
vii
facility management. Finally, campaigns should be launched to educate communities and the necessary stakeholders about the importance of digitalization in facility management.”
Keywords: Digitalization, digital technologies, digital transformation, facilities management, Risk management.