Sharpen your facilities management knowledge

“Facilities management is one of those disciplines that brings something new to deal with every day,” says Mike Packham MRICS of BWA Chartered Surveyors, who trains candidates on RICS’ Certificate in CRE and FM online course.

“It’s this dynamic aspect of FM that makes it incredibly important. Although it is a relatively late comer to the RICS pathway family, what is not generally recognised is that a lot of the other pathways include aspects of FM practice. The online course is aimed at both newcomers to FM as well as existing practitioners who may have focused on one particular aspect to the detriment of others.

“Equally, we are living in a rapidly changing world of issues concerning technology and health in the workplace – so even experienced FM professionals might find it beneficial to sign up.”

The course includes reference to RICS guidance where this is available, and to equivalent documentation produced as British/international standards, and by other professional institutions. “It also provides a great starting point for those seeking to resolve a particular FM issue that they are facing within their own working lives, and to discuss such issues with their peers,” says Packham.

Candidates will learn how to interpret the role of CRE and FM in the overall competitive strategy of their own organisation in the context of when, where, what type and on what terms real estate services will be demanded. They will also learn to critically consider the aims of the corporate real estate and facilities manager in managing the property of an organisation, as well as its sustainability performance. They’ll evaluate the issues in acquiring and disposing of operational property, and apply whole-life economics as the basis for informed decision-making in the property lifecycle.

Louise Poole, head of property at British American Tobacco UK, explains that although she felt she already had a good understanding of CRE and FM, she took the course to update her knowledge around new policies and legislation, and to apply the latest thinking to her current role.

“The course was really easy to work around my busy job,” she says. “Getting a better strategic view of CRE and FM at work has already helped me to put new policies and procedures into practice, as well as refine exsting ones. It also helps when dealing with other stakeholders within the business. Overall, it’s helped me make changes that will positively impact our business, now and over years to come.”

The course is available digitally, so you can watch it live and study from a place that suits you. You will be able to interact with your trainer, asking them as many questions as you like through the online platform and revisit your course through an online recording, available after the session.