Relevance of Automation in the Facility Management of High-Rise Buildings in Nigeria

Operators (owners/facility managers) of high-rise buildings are continuously faced with the challenge of finding innovative means of controlling and managing facilities of high-rise buildings. This is due to the consistent change in the nature and functions of building systems. Meanwhile, the use of computerized systems affords building operators the tools and method that will enhance facility management activities. This study examined the importance of automation to the facility management of high-rise buildings. The study adopted a survey research approach, administered structured questionnaire to 53 facility managers of the identified commercial high-rise buildings in Ikoyi, Lagos Island and Victoria Island. It also, applied regression analysis in determining the significance of automation on facility management activities. Findings of the study revealed that security service is the most automated facility management activity. Results also showed that automation had positive effect on facility management practice with R square of 0.66. The study concluded that although automation is seldom used in carrying out facility management activities; it has a positive impact on facility management services with 66% significance level on facility management activities. It then recommended that steps should be taken by all stakeholders to develop the practice of facility management, research and facility management education.