In January/February’s Bookshelf, an introductory book was reviewed. For this issue’s column, another introductory book will be reviewed here as well.
Facility Management for Beginners: The New Facility Managers Quickstart Guide to Becoming a Facility Superhero
Ward, Gary., 2023, 327 pp., paperback $18.95.
Many facility managers, like Gary Ward, the author, get into the job without much prior experience in the commercial or institutional world. But even with military experience, there are many new things to learn and manage as a facilities manager that the experience of a person like Gary can be very helpful. Sharing the experiences and knowledge gained on the job can be invaluable. That appears to be the thesis for Facility Management for Beginners.
Experience in facilities management (FM) does not have to be in a single industry or nation to be meaningful for most facility managers. Ward’s experience in South Africa translates well to North America, Australia, and other nations where APPA has affiliations.
The book is divided into two parts. The first part is an overview of the history of construction and facilities plus the characteristics of a good facility manager. Itis a role that is essential in modern society, but it is also a role that requires good people skills to act as an interface between humans (or customers) and the physical characteristics of the facility they are using. Itis frequently a peacemaker role that requires good listening, communication, and tact in difficult situations. Part Two dives into the technical aspects of the job and represents the bulk of the book. A considerable amount of the second part is also devoted to the building systems.
While there is good coverage of building systems, the coverage is uneven. Ward spends much more time on electrical systems—covering terms and definitions down to how three-phase systems work, while details of HVAC and plumbing systems feel almost glossed-over. Given the importance of HVAC systems to sustainability and occupant comfort, this is a significant omission.
The second part is completed with technical information about fire safety, security, utilities, and housekeeping. These are all important for modern facilities to ensure sustainability and occupant safety. It is nice to see them included in this portion of the book.
The concluding chapters cover budgeting, management, and interview skills. Given the general nature of these topics, it seems they would be more appropriate in a third part or inclusion in the first part.
Ward writes in a conversational storytelling style, mentioning events that are easily recognized even when the location and players are different. They provide a clear reason for the lesson presented.
Overall, the book’s title tells it all, it is for beginners. That is not to dismiss the value of Facility Management for Beginners, it is appropriate for a beginning audience—likely interns and potential employees. Get this book and share it with a teen looking for career options.
APPA Fellow Theodore (Ted) Weidner, PhD, PE, RA, NCARB, DBIA, CEFP, is professor of engineering practice at Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana. He can be reached at [email protected]. If you would like to write a book review, please contact Ted directly.
Bookshelf
Book reviews on current publications relevant to the profession, trends, and working environment of facilities and educational managers and professionals. To contribute a book review, contact Ted Weidner, field editor of this column.
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