Premises and Facilities Management | According to a new survey, 97% of facilities management (FM) decision-makers intend to boost investment in technology within the next 12-to-24 months, with none expecting to scale back.
The findings point to a sector-wide shift towards digital transformation, underpinned by growing confidence in the returns delivered by earlier technology deployments.
Half of respondents anticipate “significant” increases in spending, rising to two-thirds among those managing estates larger than 500,000 sq ft. Notably, many of these larger organisations have already invested heavily in digital tools, suggesting that proven value is driving further commitment rather than caution.
The research highlights several key areas attracting investment. Smart building sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies top the list, cited by 59% of respondents, followed by digital FM platforms (52%), and AI-powered software (43%).
Crucially, the drivers behind this spending signal a maturing market. Operational efficiency (63%) and service quality improvements (62%) are the leading motivations, indicating that technology is no longer viewed solely as a cost-reduction tool but as a means of enhancing overall performance and outcomes.
This reflects the sector’s broader evolution from a traditional support function to a more strategic role within organisations.
The findings also point to a more disciplined approach to technology adoption. Some 96% of FM leaders report having frameworks in place to measure and track the impact of their investments, ensuring alignment with business objectives and tangible improvements in service delivery.
This growing emphasis on data and accountability suggests that digital transformation in FM is entering a more mature phase, where investment decisions are increasingly evidence-based.
The research points to a significant inflection point for the FM sector across the UK and Ireland. As organisations place greater strategic value on facilities management, technology is emerging as a critical enabler, supporting both operational excellence and enhanced service delivery.
Importantly, the shift does not diminish the role of people. Instead, digital tools are increasingly seen as complementing the expertise of FM professionals, enabling them to deliver higher-value outcomes in more complex and demanding environments.
