GEFMA guidelines: Basics for professional facility management

What are the GEFMA guidelines?

The GEFMA guidelines are a decisive set of rules for facility management in Germany. They were developed by the Facility Management Company (GEFMA) to set standards and promote best practices. These guidelines not only serve as a guide, but also as a quality benchmark for the industry.

Essentially, the GEFMA guidelines are about creating a standardised basis for facility management. This includes both infrastructural and technical facility management. By applying these guidelines, companies can Efficiency and at the same time improve the quality of their services.

Historical development of the guidelines

The development of the GEFMA guidelines began in the 1990s with the aim of establishing uniform standards in the field of building management. Since then, various guidelines such as GEFMA 940, GEFMA 100and GEFMA 720 which cover specific aspects of facility management.

These guidelines have evolved over the years and adapted to new technologies and market requirements. One example of this is the increasing importance of Sustainability and Energy efficiencywhich are now an integral part of the GEFMA standards.

The GEFMA guidelines ensure that facility management is not only efficient, but also sustainable is.

Overall, the GEFMA guidelines provide a structured basis for facility management companies to optimise their processes and position themselves better on the market. By complying with these standards, companies can not only reduce their costs, but also optimise their Customer loyalty strengthen.

Important GEFMA guidelines in detail

The GEFMA guidelines are the backbone of professional facility management in Germany. They provide clear standards and guidelines that help companies to manage and operate their buildings efficiently. Let's take a closer look at some of the most important GEFMA guidelines:

• GEFMA 940: Basics and scope of application

  This guideline defines the basic requirements for facility management. It defines the scope of application and describes the essential processes required for the effective management of buildings. GEFMA 940 is particularly important for companies that want to standardise and improve their services.

• GEFMA 100: Certification and audit processes

  The GEFMA 100 guideline describes the process for Certification of facility management service providers. Here, specific Criteria which must be fulfilled in order to receive GEFMA certification. This certification is a sign of quality and professionalism in facility management.

• GEFMA 720: Documentation in facility management

  Documentation is the key to successful facility management. The GEFMA 720 guideline provides a framework for the creation and maintenance of documentation, including maintenance logs, operating instructions and other important documents. Good documentation not only helps with regulatory compliance, but also with Optimisation of processes.

The Implementation of these guidelines requires commitment and resources, but the Advantages are considerable. By using these standards, companies can not only optimise their operating processes, but also increase their competitiveness on the market.

In a world where sustainability and efficiency are becoming increasingly important, the GEFMA guidelines provide valuable guidance for all those involved in facility management. Whether it is infrastructural or technical facility management - these standards are indispensable!

Let's work together to ensure that your organisation stays at the cutting edge of facility management best practice in Germany!

Importance of GEFMA certification

The GEFMA certification is not just a pretty piece of paper hanging on the wall. It is a comprehensive seal of quality that provides companies in the facility management sector in Germany with a considerable Advantages offers. But what exactly is behind this certification process?

Procedure of the certification process

The path to GEFMA certification is clearly structured and consists of several steps:

• Preparation: Companies must first familiarise themselves with the relevant GEFMA guidelines, such as GEFMA 100.
• Self-assessment: An internal review of processes and standards is carried out to identify the company's own strengths and weaknesses.
• Audit: An external audit by a GEFMA-certified auditor verifies compliance with the guidelines.
• Granting of certificate: Upon successful completion of the audit, certification is granted, which must then be renewed regularly.

Advantages of GEFMA certification for companies

The Advantages The benefits of such certification are manifold:

• Competitive advantage: Companies with GEFMA certification stand out from the competition and gain the trust of customers and partners.
• Quality improvement: By adhering to strict guidelines, companies improve their internal processes, which leads to greater efficiency.
• Access to resources: Certified companies receive access to exclusive GEFMA events and training courses that help them keep their finger on the pulse of the industry.
• Sustainability: The GEFMA guidelines also promote sustainable practices in facility management, which is an important selling point in today's world.

Benchmarking and key performance indicators in facility management

In the world of the Facility Management Benchmarking is like a navigation system in uncharted territory. It helps you to keep an overview and identify best practices while measuring your own performance against the competition. But what exactly does this mean for the GEFMA guidelines?

The GEFMA Benchmarking is an essential component in evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of facility management services. GEFMA has developed specific key performance indicators (KPIs) that serve as a benchmark for evaluating the success of facility management processes.

These KPIs are not just numbers on a piece of paper; they tell a story about your operations. For example, high customer satisfaction can indicate that your maintenance strategies are effective and that your employees are well trained.

Importance of benchmarking in the industry

Benchmarking is like the secret ingredient in a recipe for success. It allows companies to compare their performance with the best in the industry and identify weaknesses as well as strengths. Through regular comparisons, facility managers can make strategic decisions based on Data instead of gut feeling.

Key performance indicators (KPIs) according to GEFMA standards

The GEFMA defines specific KPIs that are of crucial importance for facility management. Here are some examples:

By understanding these metrics, facility managers can not only improve current performance, but also develop future strategies to adapt to changing market conditions.

To summarise: the right benchmarking and the use of key performance indicators in accordance with the GEFMA guidelines are crucial for success in facility management. So if you have not yet started to implement these standards, now is the perfect time!

Want to learn more about how you can take your facility management to the next level? Stay tuned for our next articles on innovative approaches and best practices!

Sustainability and innovation in facility management according to GEFMA

In today's world, where sustainability is not just a buzzword but a necessity, GEFMA plays a crucial role in integrating environmentally friendly practices into facility management. The GEFMA guidelines offer a structured approach to promoting sustainability strategies in building management.

Sustainability strategies in building management

Implementing sustainability strategies is not only good for the environment, but can also result in significant cost savings. Here are some best practices that facility managers should implement according to the GEFMA guidelines:

• Energy efficiency: By using modern technologies to monitor and control energy consumption, buildings can be operated more efficiently.
• Conservation of resources: Strategies to minimise water consumption and reduce waste are essential.
• Sustainable procurement: The selection of environmentally friendly materials and products helps to reduce the ecological footprint.

The GEFMA Innovation Award: promoting innovation in the industry

The GEFMA Innovation Award is an excellent way of recognising innovative approaches in facility management. It encourages companies to develop creative solutions that are both economically and ecologically sound. sustainable are. Some notable examples from past years include:

• Artificial intelligence: The use of AI for predictive Maintenance helps to plan maintenance work with foresight.
• Data analysis: By collecting and analysing Data facility managers can make well-founded decisions and optimise processes.
• Construction and operating technologies: Innovative technologies such as smart building systems significantly improve the comfort and efficiency of buildings.

Ultimately, it is clear that sustainability and innovation must go hand in hand. The GEFMA guidelines provide a valuable framework for facility managers in Germany. By adopting these principles, companies can not only reduce their operating costs, but also actively contribute to protecting our environment.

Cost management and maintenance according to GEFMA guidelines

Cost management in facility management is like juggling several balls at the same time - you always have to keep a cool head and maintain an overview. The GEFMA guidelines provide a clear framework for minimising the costs of the Maintenance and effectively control the operation of buildings.

Cost management strategies in facility management

In today's world, where resources are precious, well thought-out cost management is essential. Here are some strategies that have proven their worth:

• Budgeting: Create a realistic budget based on historical data and future forecasts.
• Resource utilisation: Monitor the utilisation of your resources to avoid unnecessary expenditure.
• Cost-benefit analysis: Evaluate all measures in terms of their profitability and efficiency.
• Use of technology: Use modern CAFM softwareto automate processes and Transparency to create.

Importance of maintenance for the service life of buildings

The Maintenance is not just a chore - it is the key to extending the life of your property. By carrying out regular maintenance work, you can avoid expensive repairs and preserve the value of your property. The GEFMA guidelines recommend, among other things

• Preventive Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance work to recognise problems at an early stage.
• Documentation: Keep a record of all work carried out in order to maintain an overview of the condition of the building (see also GEFMA 720).
• Energy efficiency: Implement sustainable practices to reduce energy consumption and lower operating costs.

Ultimately, efficient cost management and a proactive maintenance strategy are not just good practice - they are critical to long-term success in facility management. By following the GEFMA guidelines, you will ensure that your buildings not only function, but also thrive!

Events and membership of GEFMA

The GEFMA offers not only guidelines, but also a lively community of experts who are committed to the further development of the Facility Management use. Events are at the heart of this community and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas, best practices and innovations.

GEFMA membership options and their benefits

GEFMA membership opens doors to a wide range of benefits:

• Access to exclusive training courses and workshops that focus on the latest GEFMA guidelines are harmonised.
• Networking opportunities with other professionals from the industry.
• Access to current research results and publications in the field of facility management.
• Opportunity to participate in benchmarking studies to assess own performance against industry standards.

Future events and training courses on GEFMA topics

GEFMA regularly plans a series of events specifically aimed at informing members about current trends and developments in the industry. Developments in facility management. Here are some of the highlights:

• Annual conference: A major event at which experts give presentations and offer workshops. Ideal for anyone who wants to familiarise themselves with the latest trends in building management.
• Webinars: Regular online seminars that allow members to participate from the comfort of their office.
• Training courses: Practical workshops on the implementation of GEFMA guidelines such as GEFMA 940 or GEFMA 100.

Whether you are new to the industry or a seasoned professional, GEFMA membership provides you with the resources and the Networkto advance your career in facility management. Take advantage of this opportunity!

Conclusion

The GEFMA guidelines are not just a set of rules, but the basis for professional facility management in Germany. They provide a clear framework that enables companies to optimise their processes and increase efficiency. By applying the GEFMA 940, GEFMA 100 and GEFMA 720 Guidelines can help organisations ensure they are working to best practice in building management.

One key aspect is the GEFMA certificationwhich not only serves as proof of quality, but also creates trust among customers and partners. The benefits of such certification are manifold: from improving cost management to increasing sustainability in building management.

Looking at the The future of facility management, it is clear that trends such as sustainability and innovation are being driven by the GEFMA Innovation Award be promoted. Participation in GEFMA events also provides an excellent opportunity for networking and the exchange of best practices.

To summarise, the GEFMA guidelines are an indispensable resource for all those involved in facility management. They help to set standards and take the entire facility management process to a new level. If you are not yet part of this community, now could be the perfect time to consider a GEFMA membership to think about!