By- Hassam Chaudhry, Associate professor, School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society at Heriot-Watt University Dubai 

Facilities Management (FM) involves a diverse array of tasks, including enhancing operational efficiency, safeguarding physical and digital assets, promoting employee welfare, managing resources effectively, mitigating risks, and maintaining assets. FM aims to ensure the smooth functioning, security, and effectiveness of assets through the integration of people, processes, and technology. However, the complexity of overseeing and analysing all these responsibilities for the sake of business continuity poses a challenge to FM companies., FM data is documented using various tools like spreadsheets and blueprints. Yet, to streamline expenses and enhance returns, the FM industry has been embracing advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven systems like Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Computer-Aided Facilities Management (CAFM). These innovative systems have become indispensable for contemporary FM operations. Moreover, the integration of digital twins has emerged as a game-changer, revolutionising traditional approaches to building maintenance, operations, and optimisation in FM. A digital twin for example, essentially a virtual replica of a physical asset or system, empowers FM professionals with real-time insights, predictive capabilities, and enhanced decision-making tools. 

Digital twins play a key role in optimising energy management, providing detailed insights into energy consumption patterns and identifying areas of inefficiency. They enable the implementation of energy-saving measures such as adjusting HVAC systems, optimising lighting schedules, and integrating renewable energy sources, aligning with the priority of minimising costs and environmental impact. For instance, in a commercial building, a digital twin can mirror the entire structure, including HVAC, lighting, and security systems. Real-time data from sensors embedded within the building can be fed into the digital twin, allowing facilities managers to monitor energy consumption, detect anomalies, and predict equipment failures. This proactive approach helps in preventive maintenance, reducing downtime and operational costs. Additionally, digital twins enhance space utilisation by offering valuable insights into occupancy rates, traffic flow, and space utilisation metrics, enabling FM professionals to redesign spaces for optimal functionality and adaptability. Moreover, with the adaption of IoT devices, digital twins facilitate remote monitoring and control of building systems and equipment, enabling FM teams to access real-time data, diagnose issues remotely, and implement corrective actions, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing travel costs. In an era characterised by big data and analytics, digital twins empower FM professionals to make data-driven decisions by aggregating and analysing vast amounts of data, identifying performance trends, optimisation opportunities, and ultimately enhancing overall operational efficiency and effectiveness in facility management.

The integration of digital twin technology into FM is revolutionising the industry, creating a surge in demand for FM professionals equipped with advanced skills. As digital twins generate extensive data, there is a pressing need for experts proficient in data analysis, interpretation, and visualisation. This demand highlights the crucial role of data analysts and technologists in deriving actionable insights from digital twin data to optimise building performance and enhance operational efficiency. This transition highlights the growing demand for FM professionals skilled in using digital twin platforms, IoT devices, sensors, and related technologies. Furthermore, as digital twins automate routine tasks, FM professionals can redirect their focus towards strategic planning and decision-making processes. This shift necessitates strong analytical and problem-solving skills among FM professionals to drive data-driven initiatives and enhance building performance. Additionally, digital twin technology promotes the integration of interdisciplinary skills, bridging traditional FM practices with emerging technologies. FM professionals must combine their expertise in building systems, operations management, and technology to effectively leverage digital twins and foster innovation. The adoption of digital twin technology may create new roles and specialisations within the FM industry, catering to the evolving needs of organisations embracing this technology. Roles like digital twin specialists, IoT integration experts, and data-driven FM consultants may emerge to support organisations in maximising the benefits of digital twin technology.

Technologies like digital twins are poised to open new job opportunities for aspiring women in FM by breaking traditional barriers and fostering inclusivity. According to a report by the International Facilities Management Association (IFMA), globally, women make up an average of 22 percent of the FM workforce. However, this gender distribution varies significantly across regions. In North America, there is the highest gender diversity, with women comprising 25 percent of facility managers. Whereas, in the Middle East, women represent only five per cent of the facility management workforce. With the increased adoption of technologies like digital twins, there will be an increased demand for professionals skilled in data analysis, IoT integration, and technology management areas where women can excel. Moreover, digital twins offer flexibility, allowing remote monitoring and management, which can accommodate work-life balance needs often prioritised by women. Additionally, digital twin technology promotes a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach, valuing diverse perspectives and skill sets. This shift towards tech-enabled roles within FM creates an environment where women with backgrounds in engineering, data science, and technology can thrive, contributing to innovation and driving industry growth. As a result, women can play a significant role in shaping the future of facilities management through their expertise in digital twin technologies and related fields.

As businesses further adopt digital transformation, the incorporation of tools such as digital twins into FM will become more common. This trend will lead to the development of smarter, more resilient, and sustainable built environments. Harnessing the capabilities of digital twins, facility managers can explore fresh avenues for innovation, differentiation, and gaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving landscape.