Keeping up with building management trends is the key to constantly improving and innovating the buildings you manage. Building management teams are busy with day-to-day tasks, and finding the time to look for quality resources can find itself low on the priority list. From magazines to podcasts, online networking groups to professional development courses, we saved you the work and rounded up 21 of our favorite go-to resources.
Building Technology Trends Blogs
1. PlanGrid Blog
If you’re at a point where you’re considering managing a construction project, PlanGrid’s blog should make your list of must-read blogs. Their articles cover upcoming market trends, thought leader interviews and educational content for AEC professionals.
2. IrisVR Blog
We’re big fans of innovative technology, and virtual reality on its own is fascinating to read about. IrisVR is a New York-based technology company that transforms the way construction and building teams can view their BIM models. Plus, they feature weekly technology articles showcasing fantastic use cases and best practices.
3. AkitaBox Blog
Finding up-to-date, relevant and innovative resources on the building industry can be tough to come by. Thankfully, there’s the AkitaBox blog, which features weekly articles on technology trends, insider insights, market research and ways to get the job done.
Online Building Management News
4. Redshift by Autodesk
You may not have known, but Autodesk has its own online news platform called Redshift that publishes articles covering a wide range of topics – from best practices to innovation in the industry. Even better, the site covers not only AEC, but also includes manufacturing, infrastructure, and sustainability in its core range of topics.
5. FacilitiesNet
FacilitiesNet is an online publication for building managers that shares money saving insights, product research, education, salary information, job postings, discussions and editorial interviews about building design, construction, management and maintenance.
6. Facility Executive
Facility Executive is a one-stop source for information on quality operation, design and maintenance of facilities. Facility Executive brings in facility management experts who explore and analyze issues that affect facilities and the built environment.
7. FMLink
FMLink is an online news source that aggregates stories from other outlets and publishes fresh content relevant to the building management industry.
8. BuiltWorlds
BuiltWorlds is an online publication that covers all things growth and change in the built environment. Besides written articles, BuiltWorlds also offers video content and events.
Building Management Podcasts
9. The Facility Management Innovator Podcast
The Facility Management Innovator Podcast is truly one of a kind. This high-quality podcast publishes weekly interviews with facility leaders covering advice, facility workplace trends and challenges and the future of the industry.
Online Building Management Magazines
10. Facility Maintenance Decisions
Facility Maintenance Decisions offers both a digital and print monthly subscription for building managers and engineers. Topics range from on-the-ground maintenance tasks to high-level strategic insight on construction and renovation projects.
11. Buildings Magazine
Buildings Magazine is an online publication that covers smart facility management, especially when it comes to integrating new technologies into the buildings we work in.
12. Facility Manager by APPA
Facility Manager is the official publication of APPA specialized for educational organizations. A digital subscription for APPA members, it gives high level and strategic advice on managing facilities.
13. FMJ by IFMA
FMJ is the official magazine of International Facility Management Association that is distributed six times a year in print and online. FMJ covers a range of topics, specializes in new building management technology, strategic advice, and the financial aspect as it relates to facilities.
14. CMM Online
Cleaning and Maintenance Management is a digital publication that not only covers updates from the facility management industry, but also includes advice, trends and news in the custodial and maintenance world.
15. Build Magazine
Published online four times a year, Build is a UK publication that ties building management into the larger sphere of construction and property management around the world. Many articles profile successful businesses and thought leaders from the industry and give insight into their daily lives.
Social Media Groups and Forums for FM
16. IFMA LinkedIn Group
If you’re looking to connect with other facility leaders on LinkedIn, this is the group to join. Sanctioned by IFMA and over 60,000 members, you’ll find everything from advice in the field to networking opportunities.
Online Facility Management Courses
17. Buildings Education
Buildings Education offers robust training opportunities for building management professionals. Courses range from maintenance how-to’s to calculating ROI and kickstarting capital planning. While some require a tuition fee, many courses are free, and most also offer continuing education credits.
18. ProFM Credentials
ProFM Credentials is one of the leading online certification sources for building managers looking for credentials offered beyond CFM (Certified Facility Manager) or FMP (Facility Management Professional). While there is a tuition cost, these courses offer a knowledge-based vs. experience-based curriculum like other providers. These courses cover over 24 knowledge areas.
19. OSHA
OSHA training is both necessary and relevant, especially in the building management industry. OSHA provides tons of certifications ranging from hazardous materials to all around safety by a building’s vertical (such as healthcare or government).
Building Management Conference Round-ups
20. AkitaBox 2020 Conference Round-Up
Every year, AkitaBox puts out the list of conferences we believe every building management professional should consider attending – even if it’s only one on the list. Whether the show is big or small, or your goal is to network or gain professional development, you’ll find a conference to attend on this list that will fit what you’re looking for.
21. FM Link
FM Link provides a huge list of additional conferences for building managers beyond what we’ve compiled, including a number of international shows. Even better, this list crosses over into other areas, such as cleaning, construction and maintenance.
Did we miss a resource? Comment below with your go-to magazine, online hub, or social group to add to our list. And of course, make sure to stay connected for more tips, tricks and behind-the-scene looks into the world of proactive facility management.
The Facility Manager’s Pocket Field Guide to Common Acronyms, Terms and Equipment
With more than 230 entries, the Facility Manager’s Pocket Field Guide to Common Acronyms, Terms and Equipment turns the complex into something simple. We’ve boiled it down to the essentials and made this into a trusted resource that you can easily keep in your back pocket.
Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned veteran, it’s a good idea to seek out resources that boost your industry knowledge. After reading this cover to cover, you’ll be casually correcting your coworkers on the difference between A/C and AC in no time.
