Unlocking the Power of Integrated Workplace Management Systems (IWMS) in the Cloud
“Cloud-based Integrated Workplace Management Systems (IWMS) are transforming the way offices operate, offering endless possibilities for automation, real-time problem-solving, and personalized employee experiences. As IWMS moves to the cloud, it evolves into a platform for managing and interconnecting various office systems, leading to increased productivity, cost savings, and improved workspace utilization. ”
In the past decade, business applications have successfully transitioned to the cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS) model, revolutionizing the way work happens. However, Integrated Workplace Management Systems (IWMS) remained firmly on-premises until recently. As IWMS moves to the cloud, it opens up endless possibilities for office automation and enhanced employee experiences.
The Evolution of IWMS in the Cloud
Traditional IWMS plays a crucial role in facility management, providing visibility into occupancy, headcount, and space utilization. As IWMS transitions to the cloud, it evolves into a platform for managing and automating various office systems. The open API of cloud-based IWMS enables unlimited integration potential, allowing interconnection with best-of-breed services tailored to an office's specific needs.
Solving Workplace Issues in Real-Time
Cloud-based IWMS empowers employees to solve workplace issues on the fly. Integrated sensors feed data into the IWMS, measuring room temperature, equipment condition, lighting, energy consumption, sound levels, and occupancy trends. This real-time data, coupled with instant input from employees via mobile devices, enables facility management teams to make swift adjustments to optimize each room for its intended use.
Streamlining Visitor Management and Workplace Security
The addition of a cloud-based visitor management system to the IWMS streamlines the check-in process and enhances workplace security. Visitors sign in on an iPad, triggering a series of automations, including identity verification, document signing, Wi-Fi access provisioning, and host notification. This seamless process ensures a smooth and secure visitor experience.
Automating Package Delivery Notifications
As online shopping continues to grow, employees increasingly have personal packages delivered to the workplace. Integrating package delivery notifications into the IWMS becomes a necessity to manage the influx of packages efficiently. Automating this process saves time and resources while providing a valuable service to employees.
The Workplace of the Future is Here
As Gen Z enters the workforce, they expect offices to feature integrated, personalized experiences and advanced technology. Cloud-based IWMS platforms offer the features and flexibility to meet these expectations, serving as a differentiator for companies looking to attract top talent.
Implementing a cloud-based IWMS leads to significant cost savings and improved space utilization. Research shows that companies can expect:
- 10% improvement in energy consumption
- 42% increase in facility usage efficiency
- 14% reduction in facility maintenance costs
- Up to 40% improvement in workspace management
The Future of IWMS
As we move into the future, trends indicate that SaaS-based IWMS solutions will lead the workplace transformation movement:
- By 2023, over 75% of IWMS implementations will be web-based
- Companies supporting a choose-your-own-work-style culture will see increased employee retention rates of more than 10% by the end of 2020
- By the end of 2020, a quarter of companies will provide employees with a comprehensive catalog of smart workspaces maintained by IT, real estate, and facilities management
The integration of workplace management systems in the cloud is transforming every aspect of the workplace, from real estate and space planning to workplace security, visitor management, conference room management, personalization, and package delivery. With all these features accessible through smart devices, the future of work is truly in our hands.
As businesses embrace the power of cloud-based IWMS, they unlock the potential for increased productivity, cost savings, and an enhanced employee experience. The workplace of the future is here, and it's powered by the integration and automation made possible by cloud-based IWMS platforms.
