A process for assessing the condition of nonindustrial physical plant facilities such as campuses, school systems, and office complexes is presented. Text and figures illustrating an assessment performed for the city of Seattle, Washington, include a facility management system flowchart, information records, cost estimates, and a database design.…

A public utility company uses laser wands to read bar-coded labels on furniture and equipment. The system allows an 80 percent savings of the time required to create reports for inventory control. (MLF)

A computer program utilized to generate detailed reports of labor requirements saved almost $700,000 in custodial labor costs for the Facilities Maintenance and Operations Division of Oakland County, Michigan. The program also is used for a quality-control audit system during inspections to evaluate cleaned rooms. (MLF)

By applying a computer-aided drafting system to a range of facilities layouts and plans, a division of Tektronix, Inc., Oregon, is maintaining staffing levels with an added workload. The tool is also being used in other areas of the company for illustration, design, and administration. (MLF)

Emory University, Georgia, has a space and equipment database management system that maintains inventories and generates reports. (MLF)

Implementing a computer-aided facilities management program begins with establishing priorities, determining the computer capability available, and determining the necessary budget. A space planning and management model is presented with techniques for the collection and storage of the required data. (MLF)

An information system that shows the relationship between space utilization, capital investment, operating costs, and the physical environment is necessary for effective facility management. A Texas school district established a program to actively manage its facilities. (MLF)