Best Practice for Computer Aided Facility Management - Market Survey

Since the 1990s Computer Aided Facility Management (CAFM) has been providing efficient IT tools for the illustration, evaluation and controlling of Facility Management structures and processes. In these years numerous software systems with various systematic approaches, functions and varying success have been established on the market. Despite the multitude of suppliers and users in the different branches there is still insecurity concerning the procedures and achievable effects. This is closely related to the lack of well documented, transparent and successful case studies. In addition little is known about how CAFM is implemented successfully and the factors leading to success. From the economic point of view it is very important to support this process in order to avoid wrong decisions and unnecessary investments. Especially implementation strategies and formulae for success are of great interest. This paper presents the first comparative analysis of the CAFM sections in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Due to the geographical location of the project partners the entire German speaking area could be covered and thus the results of the analysis reflect the state of the art of CAFM implementation and use in the German speaking area. The study of successful CAFM projects in companies and public institutions should make the know-how and practical experience publicly available. It presents current trends and technologies and provides recommendations for the successful CAFM implementation. This contribution addresses users, software developers, implementation partners, consultants, service providers, students and academics as well as decision makers in the field of CAFM.