Innovation is one of the five cross-functional competencies (communication, sustainability, quality, innovation, and collaboration) in the ProFM Body of Knowledge. These competencies describe the behaviors, attributes, and underlying knowledge necessary for FM professionals to facilitate the application of core technical knowledge and skills.

Definition: Innovation is the introduction of a new idea, process, or product. In organizations, it is used to deliver increased value. In FM organizations, innovation involves discovering new ways to deliver better service with in-creased effectiveness and efficiency.

New and emerging technologies have helped facilities use automation to lower costs and improve customer service, to lower energy use, and to improve monitoring, performance reporting, and decision making. Facility managers can use innovation knowledge and skills to align innovation initiatives with the goals and objectives of the organization.

Innovation is not restricted to the use of technology. It is more accurate to see innovation as:

• A mindset that resists the status quo and is open to thoroughly new solutions. An innovative mind is able to free itself of preconceptions about how things are usually done or how an object or material is customarily used. Innovative minds see possible uses and solutions that others do not see.
• A personality that accepts the risk of failure and is not afraid of change.
• A process of creating the fertile ground that innovation requires, both in oneself and in one’s teams.

Key Concepts:

• Definition of innovation and its value to FM.
• Innovation types.
• Challenges that restrict innovation.
• Organizational and personal requirements for innovation.
• Innovation process model.

Innovation Proficiency Indicators (Task Statements)

• Fosters a culture of innovation.
• Demonstrates an understanding of the different types of innovation.
• Supports change initiatives to increase the effectiveness of FM systems and processes.
• Explores emerging trends and best practices of other organizations.
• Identifies opportunities for FM and the organization to engage in improvements through innovation.
• Supports diverse teams that bring diverse perspectives and experiences to innovation challenges.
• Leads a structured innovation process for teams to transition concepts into new practice.

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