Bhumesh Gaur

In Gaur’s opinion, high real estate cost is one of the major challenges that pinch almost all FMs today. It has also become important to integrate design elements that appeal to the taste of employees, which would include not only an appealing building design but also elements like multipurpose furniture, good acoustics and adaptation of new technology keeping employee comfort in mind. Non-availability of particular resources and products in local markets is another challenge that impedes on-time product sourcing. Change in certain regulatory obligations is another abrupt challenge to any facility manager.

“There is a need to have architects who design sustainable buildings as per indigenous weather conditions, instead of imitating designs irrespective of their suitability in India. Benchmarking of services and sharing of best practices are important steps towards ensuring high standards in FM. It is also imperative to develop trained resources and creating sufficient learning opportunities to encourage young people to choose FM as a career,” states Gaur.

Having realised the significance of sustainability early on, American Express in India, over the years, has made conscious efforts in the direction within the organisation and outside. It invested in developing environmentally responsible and resource-efficient processes for running the buildings it occupies, and today close to 50% of its facilities area is green-building certified. The company’s flexible workplace programme ‘BlueWork’ better utilises workspace, reduces carbon footprint and encourages telecommuting and virtual meetings. It has adopted eco-friendly design practices in line with LEED standards. American Express strictly monitors the indoor air quality and has also provided height adjustable workstations along with ergonomic chairs to enhance overall employee health and comfort.