As a facility manager, one of the most important aspects of a project is having clear communication with the end user. Many would think that the facility manager and the end user are always informed on the project, but that is not always the case. If the end user is missing information about a project, many headaches can and will arise for everyone on the project, especially the facility manager. Another factor in this is upper management or the C-Suite. The set project deadline, which can sometimes be unrealistic and based on desire or perceived financial benefit to a company’s bottom line, these factors can cause many headaches such as high stress and frustration. To avoid these, below are some tips to help the facility manager educate the end user:
- Become a first rate communicator
Get comfortable talking to everyone! As a Facility Manager, you are the link between your team and the end user. Make sure you are open and honest about the project timeline/deadlines with the end user so they have a realistic timeline and expectations. Being a good communicator also means being a good listener and reading between the lines. Actively listen to what the end user wants and incorporate that into your timeline, within reason.
- Build and manage effective teams
The Facility Manager must learn to work with their teams and express what is expected of each person. Everyone on the team needs to have a clear idea of what their role on the project is and when the tasks need to be accomplished. This will help the project run as smooth as possible with all deadlines met on time.
- Review how the project timeline and budget is developed
This is crucial to establishing the tone of the project and the expectations of the team. The end user can expect the project to be completed on time and within budget, so therefore the Facility Manager always needs to be on top of both the budget and timeline. Usually, if a project is behind schedule, it is also over budget, so these two aspects work in conjunction and should be monitored at all times.
With over twenty year of experience, HF Planners, LLC is well versed in educating end users. Our seasoned project managers work with you and your team to manage multiple vendors, curate project timelines, and more. We understand how overwhelming these aspects of a project can be, and we become the main point of contact between you and the vendors.
If you are looking to redesign your space but find the process overwhelming, contact HF Planners, LLC today to assist in the process. We offer a full design service to help strategize, design, plan and manage an office that works best for you and your team. Contact us today for more information.
