Current Situation and Trends in Buildings and Facility Operations

This 228 page report, commissioned by the Building Efficiency for a Sustainable Tomorrow (BEST) National Center, summarizes the findings of a study of current practices and trends in the operation and management of commercial and institutional buildings in the United States. The study paid particular attention to "how technician training is impacted by global issues of energy, emissions, sustainability, market trends, legislation and regulation, technology and systems, people and processes, and the existing buildings portfolio." Both primary and secondary sources were utilized over the course of the study, and findings are organized into broad categories within the report, including Relevant Research and Programs, Background and Issues, People, Processes, and Technology. In addition to the findings on the current situation in the field, the researchers also present recommendations for future education and practice, including transitioning from relying primarily on reactive measures in facilities management to a more proactive approach. Readers may wish to begin with the extensive Executive Summary, which offers a detailed account of findings and recommendations.