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Discusses the importance of managing change from the viewpoint of facility planning and corporate guidelines in facilities management. Argues that, where change is concerned, facilities managers must stretch themselves across the whole spectrum and not simply focus on immediate operational matters. Highlights the hierarchy of needs for facility planning, from basic space requirements to image and design, and especially the aspect of cost at each level. Concludes that time is of the essence, as organizational change already has considerable momentum and could soon become an avalanche.

An abstract model for establishing facilities management in an organisation is set out: the needs of the business, the customers and the performance of the facilities management department in relation to these needs. The generic functions of the facilities department and the level of resources necessary to fulfil these are addressed.

Argues that the facilities management is really a field dedicated to facility planning – where building design meets business objectives. Considers reasons for the lack of clarity in the facilities management profession. Illustrates the state of the field by formulating a ′generic′ facilities management department. Suggests the importance of facilities management for senior management and presents the facilities management mission.

Presents the case for corporate facilities management guidelines, that is recommendations which can help a potential user of a building understand the opportunities that are available for the use of space and facilities in that building. Suggests that guidelines should raise management awareness and put business goals first and satisfy organisational needs. Considers the approaches that leading companies are taking towards facilities management.

Discusses the decision made by DEGW plc to install a new voice and data cabling network when relocating to new premises. Describes the objectives of this telecommunications and networking strategy, the elements of its implementation, and its operation and implications for the company. Raises the issue of whether a structured cabling solution is justifiable for a small to medium sized company.

Highlights the tax advantages generated by early and effective facilities management. Reviews property expenditure relief and capital allowances and their implications for real estate and building construction or facility planning. Suggests ways that facilities managers might play a role in allowance cases.

At a conference in London almost two years ago, David Cotts, President of the North American International Facility Management Association (IFMA) gave a personal view of the changes he felt would affect the facilities management profession over the next decade.

The facilities management profession has emerged in the latter half of this century in parallel with the technological revolution. A need to establish career and development frameworks that will support this growth has also emerged. This article reflects on the progress in meeting such support frameworks by examining other similar management disciplines and looks specifically at the use of competencies as a development tool. The results of research are published as a guide to aid the development of programmes in this area.

Looks at the developments at Canary Wharf and its aims to meet the diverse needs of potential office tenants. Investigates differences in design and observes the ability to attract potential tenants. Suggests that developers look at this kind of urban renewal and its possibilities for environmental good.

How far do theoretical descriptions of the role and function of facilities managers match practical applications? Reviews four quite separate and distinctive cases in the light of the strategic, tactical and operational aspects of a facilities manager′s work. Concludes that attention to detail is of prime importance, that senior management must show greater understanding of the strategic importance of the facilities role and that, though fundamental problems are common to all the cases, the solutions differ in each case and knowledge of detail becomes the vital skill.