VisibleMaintenance

VisibleMaintenance is a concept and practice within facility management and asset management that emphasizes making maintenance activities, schedules, and statuses readily apparent to building occupants and stakeholders. The core idea is transparency, aiming to reduce occupant frustration, improve communication, and foster a sense of shared responsibility for the built environment. Instead of maintenance being a hidden or reactive process, VisibleMaintenance seeks to proactively inform those affected by the work.

This approach can manifest in several ways. Digital displays or dashboards in common areas might show scheduled maintenance, such as upcoming HVAC filter changes or planned repairs, along with estimated completion times. Signage at the point of work, like on a door or piece of equipment, can indicate that maintenance is in progress and provide contact information for inquiries. Mobile applications or online portals can also serve as platforms for occupants to report issues and track the status of their requests, seeing when a technician has been assigned, is en route, or has completed the work.

The benefits of VisibleMaintenance include decreased complaints from occupants who are aware of disruptions and understand the necessity of the work. It can also improve efficiency by allowing maintenance teams to coordinate better with building users and prevent unnecessary interruptions. Furthermore, by showcasing the effort and resources dedicated to upkeep, VisibleMaintenance can enhance the perceived value and quality of the facility. This practice aligns with a broader trend towards user-centric facility management, where the experience and satisfaction of building occupants are prioritized.