In an era defined by rapid change and new challenges, facility management is proving central to creating environments that are clean, safe, and efficient across all sectors, and Great Bend-based Fuller Industries Inc. is on the cutting edge of this field.
Facility management refers to the coordination of people, places, and processes to ensure a building operates smoothly. It encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, from routine maintenance and cleaning to ensuring safety compliance, integrating new technologies, and promoting sustainability.
Joe Mann, general manager of the longtime cleaning chemical manufacturer, emphasized the strategic importance of the role.
"Facility managers are no longer just caretakers; they are strategic leaders in sustainability and business continuity," Mann said. "The way a facility is managed directly affects productivity, health, and sustainability, whether it’s a hospital, university, or office complex."
Effective facility management ensures that buildings are safe and welcoming, that energy and resources are used efficiently, and that maintenance issues are resolved quickly, allowing occupants to focus on their core work.
Focusing on health and savings
Modern facilities face stricter health standards and must integrate smart technologies, making the manager's role more crucial than ever. A well-run facility contributes directly to business success:
· Employee Health and Well-being: Clean, well-ventilated spaces boost morale and reduce absenteeism.
· Operational Savings: Proactive maintenance and efficient scheduling reduce downtime and lower energy costs.
· Sustainability: Implementing green cleaning methods and waste reduction practices minimizes environmental impact.
"Organizations that recognize the strategic value of facility management position themselves for long-term success," Mann stated.
Training is key for the future
The field is evolving quickly, with managers increasingly integrating automation, data-driven maintenance, and AI-assisted planning tools into daily operations. Smart sensors and building analytics are becoming key components of proactive management strategies.
However, even the most advanced tools require skilled professionals to interpret data and make informed decisions. This has made ongoing education and training a critical driver of success, he said.
About Fuller Industries Inc.
Based in Great Bend, Kan., with a rich heritage dating back over a century to the Fuller Brush Man, Fuller Industries is a leading American manufacturer of industrial products, including cleaning chemicals and supplies, as well as brooms, mops, brushes and more. Fuller serves manufacturing, commercial, institutional and agricultural clients across the Western Hemisphere. Call 620-792-1711 or visit Fullerindustriesllc.com.