Computer-aided facility management

from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Computer-Aided Facility Management (CAFM) is the support of facility management through information technology in the form of a computer program, which consists of a database and a user interface. The focus is on the provision of information about the facilities and the support of work processes.

Function description

The program is referred to as CAFM software, CAFM application or CAFM system. There are so-called integrated systems that combine several functions. These applications are also known as multifunctional systems (or iCAFM software). Applications with only one special function are called monofunctional applications.

In the industry, a distinction is made between client / server and web-based systems.

With client / server systems, the data can only be entered and accessed from permanently networked computers. A link for loading the application must be established for this. A database is also required.

In a web-based CAFM system, all that is needed in addition to the database is a web browser and the information can be entered and accessed on any computer via an intranet company-wide or via the Internet worldwide, without having to install anything on the computer. All that is required is the corresponding web address with which the system can be opened like any other website.

CAFM systems are increasingly being used to map facility management processes. For example, it is possible to store defects (for example defective lighting) reported by a building user (for example an office worker, etc.) as repair orders in the system. These orders can then be viewed and processed by the relevant department or an external company. Order tracking can be used, in which the open orders are presented to the department or the executing company again if the order has not yet been completed after a certain period of time (escalation). Once an order has been completed, it is noted in the system as completed and a completion message can be sent automatically to the client - for example by e-mail. In this way, work processes can be monitored and customer satisfaction increased.

Certification according to minimum standards in facility management for CAFM systems is carried out by GEFMA in accordance with the GEFMA 444 guideline.

The CAFM Ring eV is an association of manufacturers of CAFM software.

Related areas, extensions

As building automation (GA) is defined as the set of monitoring - control - regulation - and optimization facilities in buildings as part of the technical facility management. The aim is to carry out functional processes independently (automatically) across trades according to specified setting values ( parameters ) or to simplify their operation or monitoring. All sensors , actuators , operating elements, consumers and other technical units in the building are networked with one another. Processes can be summarized in scenarios. A distinguishing feature is the decentralized arrangement of the control units ( DDC ) as well as the continuous networking by means of a bus system , for example EIB / KNX , DALI or BACnet .

The extended term CAIFM or iCAFM ( English Computer-Aided Integrated Facility Management or Integrated Computer-Aided Facility Management ) sees itself

“As an integrated component of the information technology of the entire company or the entire organization and therefore supports company-wide processes that involve FM functions. A CAIFM is therefore always integrated with the ES - Enterprise System (often also called ERP - Enterprise Resource Planning System ) online and in real time. With such ES, SAP dominates large organizations in Germany with its R / 3 system. Furthermore, a CAIFM is ideally also integrated with the building automation systems. A CAIFM thus becomes part of the company's management information system (MIS) and thus real support for top management. "

- Source: Mag. Prischl Peter

See also

literature

  • Michael May (Ed.): Using IT successfully in facility management. The CAFM manual. 2nd edition, Springer, 2006, ISBN 3-540-35214-7 .
  • Jens Nävy , Wolfgang Löwen: Facility Management. Basics, computer support, system introduction, application examples. 3rd edition, Springer, Heidelberg 2000, ISBN 3-540-44167-0 .
  • Gerhard Peter Hofer: Introduction of CAIFM. Implementation of a CAIFM system in the company. Diploma thesis, 2001, Kufstein University of Applied Sciences (FHS Kufstein Tirol).
  • The Facility Manager and Valteq: Market overview of CAFM software.
  • Joachim Oelschlegel: CAFM - Computer Support in Facility Management - Practical instructions for the organizational, technical and commercial introduction and expansion of CAFM , including a database for software comparison, 1st edition expert verlag 2010, 340 p., CD-ROM (Ed.es, 83), ISBN 978-3-8169-3002-0 .

Web links

credentials