Purpose The purpose of this study is to develop an augmented reality (AR) maintenance training model focused specifically on enhancing the learning value, autonomy and accessibility of maintenance technologists in the Sri Lankan apparel industry. Through the integration of AR technologies into maintenance training, this study bridges the skill development deficits and language and literacy limitations that compromise technician performance in facilities management (FM) operations. Design/methodology/approach Design science research is used in this study to develop an AR-based training prototype that is aligned with context-appropriate industry requirements. The study used a mixed-methods approach comprising qualitative experience from expert interviews (n = 5) and field observations enriched by quantitative validation from 31 participants drawn from a leading apparel factory in Sri Lanka. The quantitative measurement was conducted through the system usability scale (SUS), whereas the qualitative feedback was analyzed thematically to obtain user impressions and experiential learning milestones. Statistical tests, such as mean SUS score interpretation, standard deviation analysis and effect size testing, were conducted to assess the validity and reliability of the findings. Findings Results indicate that the AR model significantly improved the comprehension of complex maintenance procedures, reduced dependence on expert supervisors and enhanced user motivation and engagement. Originality/value This study offers a validated, scalable AR training solution with real-world applications to industrial training practice, contributing to the theoretical discourse of technology-supported learning in FM, particularly within the framework of emerging economies.
Purpose This study aims to investigate how facilities management (FM) digital technologies impact stakeholder collaboration, how key sustainability drivers and collaboration affect sustainable building FM, and the moderating effect of digital technologies on sustainability drivers’ influence on sustainable building FM. It compares managers’ and users’ perspectives, providing empirical evidence from Abu Dhabi’s public buildings managed by the Department of Culture and Tourism and the Department of Municipalities and Transport. Design/methodology/approach Grounded in stakeholder theory, the study adopts a quantitative survey approach. Data were collected from 334 managers and users of Abu Dhabi public facilities and analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. Findings FM digital technology strongly enhances stakeholder collaboration, which positively influences sustainable building FM. Environmental management and site/location analysis also contribute directly to sustainable building FM. Digital technology demonstrates a weak but meaningful moderating effect on the relationship between environmental management and sustainable building FM, while no moderating effect is observed for site/location analysis. Facility users perceive a stronger link between digital technology and collaboration than facility managers. Practical implications Public facilities should prioritise community-centric digital platforms to enhance collaboration and support SDGs 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Manager training is essential to align perceptions and foster participatory FM towards resource efficiency and urban resilience. Originality/value This study advances urban FM sustainability research by empirically integrating managers’ and users’ perspectives in a public sector context, clarifying where digital technologies strengthen, or fail to strengthen, sustainability mechanisms, and highlighting their role in bridging perceptual differences in Abu Dhabi.
Purpose Facilities management (FM) regulates the most resource-intensive and longest stage of the built environment lifecycle but is peripheral within the theory of circular economy (CE). The study aims to build a conceptually rich theoretical framework of how the principles of CE can be systematically incorporated in FM practice in Ghana, a setting that is generally underrepresented in literature on CE-FM. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative, theory-building research design, based on an integrative literature review of CE, FM, built environment sustainability, and Global South urban governance was used. Themes and conceptual abstraction were used to synthesise peer-reviewed journal articles, international standards and policy reports to combine CE principles with FM functions at governance, institutional and operational levels. Findings The study develops a multi-level CE-FM model that illustrates how circularity in building operations is achieved through the coordination of policy and regulatory indicators, organisational governance and procurement regimes, and operational FM practices in terms of asset management, energy, water and waste. The structural obstacles are short-term cost rationales, ineffective lifecycle information structures, and underdeveloped circular supply markets. Research limitations/implications Although the framework is based on Ghana-specific literature, contextual heterogeneity in Sub-Saharan Africa can restrict short-term applicability outside of Sub-Saharan Africa without empirical confirmation. Practical implications In practice, the framework can guide organisations and policymakers on what systemic levers should be in place to make FM operations circular. It emphasises the need to have stakeholder coordination, procurement innovation and capacity-building as tools of operationalising CE principles. Originality/value The paper contributes to theory by rebranding FM as a socio-technical governance intermediary at the centre of circular transitions in the built environment. It expands the theory of CE-FM into a Sub-Saharan African setting and offers a platform upon which future empirical studies can be carried out in FM research.
PurposeThe global transition towards zero energy buildings (ZEBs) has emerged as a transformative strategy to enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable urbanisation. While significant progress has been achieved in developed economies, the African continent, which is home to the fastest-growing population yet among the lowest electricity access rates, remains underexplored in this transition. Despite abundant renewable energy potential, Africa continues to face severe energy poverty, underscoring the critical yet underutilised role of ZEBs. This study aims to systematically review the adoption of ZEBs in Africa by identifying the key barriers, enabling factors and socio-technical dynamics, while proposing a contextualised framework to support its adoption. Design/methodology/approachThe study adopts a systematic literature review (SLR) methodology of peer-reviewed publications from ScienceDirect, Scopus and Google Scholar on the adoption of ZEBs in Africa. The review synthesises existing literature to develop a contextual understanding of the interactions between climatic advantages, institutional capacity and socio-economic constraints in shaping the feasibility of ZEBs in Africa. FindingsThe findings reveal that while technological and policy gaps persist, opportunities exist through climate-responsive designs, decentralised renewable energy systems and capacity-building initiatives. Moreover, the findings suggest that future research should expand beyond residential building typologies and individual buildings to include institutional, commercial and mixed-use buildings to expedite the adoption of ZEBs across the continent. Research limitations/implicationsFuture research should expand beyond residential building typologies and individual buildings to include institutional, commercial and mixed-use buildings to expedite the adoption of ZEBs across the continent. Practical implicationsThe review synthesises existing knowledge to offer a comprehensive ZEB adoption framework for policymakers, researchers and practitioners in Africa, aimed at expediting ZEB implementation while addressing energy security and climate resilience. Originality/valueThis review offers the first synthesis of ZEB-related studies conducted in Africa across the continent. It provides a thorough framework for policymakers, academics and practitioners to expedite ZEB implementation, enhance energy security, and promote climate resilience in the area by using current information.
Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of service innovation strategies on tenant satisfaction in Grade B office buildings located in Bangkok's central business district (CBD). It identifies how innovations in strategic planning, technology and tenant experience improve building competitiveness and satisfaction. Unlike most prior studies that concentrate on premium office spaces, this research focuses on the underexplored Grade B segment to offer new insights into service-led value creation. The study also examines how these service innovations contribute to broader sustainability objectives in facility and property management.Design/methodology/approach A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining semi-structured interviews with building managers and structured questionnaires from tenants in five Grade B office buildings. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests in IBM SPSS Statistics 29 to identify significant differences in tenant satisfaction across buildings, while qualitative data were thematically analysed to interpret managerial perspectives on service innovation. The study examined eight key dimensions of service innovation, such as strategy and policy, technology, customer service and tenant experience.Findings Results indicate clear variations in tenant satisfaction associated with different service innovation approaches. Buildings that adopted tenant-centric and flexible service strategies - including responsive maintenance, adaptable workspace arrangements, effective technological tools and transparent communication - consistently achieved higher satisfaction levels. Conversely, buildings that focused mainly on physical upgrades or cost-driven measures showed limited improvements in satisfaction. The findings highlight that customer service, tenant experience and strategic clarity are the strongest contributors to satisfaction, whereas design enhancements and performance monitoring tended to produce uniform baseline perceptions across the sample.Research limitations/implications This research is limited to five Grade B office buildings in Bangkok's CBD, which may affect the broader applicability of its findings. Future research could examine diverse office types, ownership models and user groups, as well as incorporate performance metrics to enhance generalisability and sustainability insights.Practical implications This study provides practical criteria and guidelines for real estate owners and facility managers, including prioritising tenant-centric services, adopting digital communication tools, maintaining responsive maintenance systems and aligning service delivery with tenant profiles. It also recommends implementing structured feedback loops, performance tracking and flexible budgeting as part of responsive service frameworks. These proactive management practices can help revitalise underperforming office assets and support long-term competitiveness and sustainability in service delivery.Originality/value This research contributes empirical evidence to the evolving discourse on service-led strategies within the real estate sector, emphasising practical dimensions of service innovation that directly influence tenant satisfaction. By integrating qualitative insights from management and quantitative satisfaction data, the paper presents a robust, evidence-based approach for enhancing tenant experiences, building competitiveness and supporting sustainable facility management practices.
Purpose This study aims to examine the evolution of hospital architecture and its impact on healthcare delivery, emphasizing the relationship between design, medical efficacy and patient outcomes. Design/methodology/approach Through historical analysis, this study traces hospital design from medieval isolationist models to the 19th-century pavilion system’s emphasis on ventilation and, finally, to contemporary hospitals integrating biophilic elements and smart technologies. Key architectural milestones are analyzed to highlight their impact on medical practice and patient care. Findings The findings reveal how hospital design has adapted to enhance healthcare outcomes. Medieval hospitals prioritized isolation and spiritual care, while the 19th-century pavilion system introduced ventilation and spatial organization to reduce infections. Modern hospitals incorporate advanced technologies and natural design elements to optimize both medical efficacy and patient experience. These shifts underscore the dynamic interplay between architecture and healthcare. Originality/value This review offers a novel synthesis of architectural and medical history, illustrating how hospital design has shaped and been shaped by evolving healthcare paradigms. By tracing the trajectory from medieval infirmaries to smart medical suites, it bridges disciplinary gaps between architecture, medicine and public health. The manuscript uniquely contextualizes design features, such as ventilation, modularity and biophilia, not merely as aesthetic choices but as pivotal factors in patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. Its historical depth and future-oriented lens provide critical insights for both designers and clinicians aiming to create therapeutic, adaptive and resilient healthcare environments.
Purpose This study aims to address a critical gap in sustainable energy literature by quantifying the technical feasibility and carbon emission reduction of integrating a medium-sized wind turbine on residential rooftops within the unexplored Coastal Temperate and Highly Humid Region of Iran. The core objective was to determine if localized wind energy could provide a crucial, direct offset to the extremely high seasonal peak cooling demand currently met by fossil fuel generated electricity characteristic of this specific climate zone. Design/methodology/approach A rigorous building energy modeling (BEM) approach was used using DesignBuilder software to simulate a typical five-story residential building. The model was anchored by hyper-local, multidecade meteorological data specific to the study area. Unlike conventional studies focused solely on turbine performance, the author’s methodology centered on a holistic, component-level energy analysis, comparing a baseline scenario against an optimized scenario with the wind turbine integrated, focusing specifically on the energy components of cooling, heating and lighting. Findings The simulations yielded compelling evidence, demonstrating the turbine’s capacity for an impressive annual clean energy production of 10,341 kWh. Critically, the analysis revealed that 3,207 kWh of this energy is generated during the severe peak cooling months (May–August). This finding confirms a substantial and direct load-matching capacity, proving the system’s effectiveness in mitigating the most challenging energy load in the region – the air conditioning demands driven by high heat and humidity. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this research is the first of its kind to move beyond generalized feasibility studies to establish a quantified demand-side mitigation strategy for this distinct coastal climate. By definitively linking localized wind resource assessment to demonstrable component-level energy savings, it offers an original, actionable and vital low-carbon pathway for residential development, providing essential data for regional energy policymaking.
Purpose Circular Economy (CE) adoption in construction and demolition (C&D) waste management is strongly influenced by stakeholder behaviour. However, these behavioural determinants have not been comprehensively examined. Therefore, this paper aims to address this gap by developing a behaviour-focused framework that supports this metamorphosis, linking CE adoption in C&D waste management with the creation of safe and sustainable environments. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review of 92 articles was conducted to identify behavioural constructs, indicators and interventions influence the adoption of CE. Based on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and norm activation model (NAM), these elements were integrated to develop a behaviour focused framework. The framework is validated through interviews with 12 experts in Victoria, Australia, analysed using frequency based thematic analysis. Policy triangulation was carried out by systematically comparing the validate constructs and interventions against national and Victorian policy documents. Findings The framework comprises seven constructs, 31 indicators and 41 interventions, including 12 indicators and 21 interventions newly validated by experts. Key behavioural drivers include cost perception, regulatory pressure, capability factors, moral commitment and long-term environmental awareness, supported by aligned policy, economic, technological and certification interventions. Policy triangulation indicates only partial alignment, suggesting stakeholder behaviour remains insufficiently embedded in current CE approaches. Originality/value The proposed framework identifies constructs, indicators and interventions that influence design phase behaviour, which can be used to support material choices, reduce waste generation and promote safer, more sustainable facilities.
Purpose While many hotels have embraced the green agenda through initiatives such as energy-efficient systems, waste reduction and eco-friendly amenities, the integration of sustainable design and materials in interior spaces remains underdeveloped. This oversight has led to suboptimal operational performance, manifesting in increased maintenance costs, higher energy consumption and reduced guest satisfaction. This study aims to analyse the strength of the relationship between sustainable interior design (SID) requirements and hotel performance effectiveness (HPE) during the operational phase. It addresses the existing gap where sustainable design integration in interior spaces is often neglected, leading to inefficiencies in maintenance, energy consumption and guest satisfaction. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research design using a questionnaire survey was conducted among 237 maintenance managers of 4- and 5-star hotels across Malaysia. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to test eight hypothesized relationships between SID criteria and HPE. This method allowed assessment of complex constructs and predictive relevance while ensuring reliability and validity of the measurement and structural models. Findings The SEMp-value indicated that energy efficiency was the most important SID for hotel performance, followed by ergonomic, green awareness and signage, sustainable site planning and management and finally health and social flexibility. Advocating for the incorporation of eco-friendly materials, sustainable furnishing and interior energy solutions that aligns with functional, technical, environmental and social performance and hedonic aspects for hotel customers, ultimately supporting a more sustainable and profitable future for the hospitality industry. The findings underscore the necessity for a holistic approach to sustainability, which helps hotels to improve operational efficiency, cost savings and enhanced guest experiences. The proposed model portrayed a nexus of facilities management and interior design fields that underscores the necessity for a sustainability approach to improve hotel’s operational efficiency. However, biophilic design, water consumption and environmental comfort did not show significant relationships with performance, indicating the need for greater awareness and implementation of these aspects. Research limitations/implications The study was limited to 4- and 5-star hotels in Malaysia and primarily reflected the perspectives of maintenance managers. Broader inclusion of other stakeholders, such as designers and guests, could enrich the findings. Furthermore, contextual differences in hotel size, brand standards and environmental certifications may influence the generalizability of results. Originality/value This study establishes empirical evidence linking SID practices with hotel operational performance. It is among the first to quantitatively model the SID–HPE relationship using PLS-SEM in the Malaysian hospitality context. The findings provide actionable insights for hotel operators, designers and policymakers to integrate SID principles into operational strategies for enhanced sustainability and profitability.
Purpose This study evaluates the accessibility of seven university buildings at Kirsehir Ahi Evran University using the TS 9111 standard. The aim is to create a practical framework for administrations to prioritise accessibility interventions for disabled individuals.Design/methodology/approach A hybrid SWARA-MAIRCA model presented in the study provides a more practical and applicable model than the survey and field-based studies frequently used in literature. SWARA calculated criteria weights, while MAIRCA ranked the buildings. This robust analytical method transcends conventional survey and field-based studies.Findings The most critical criteria were Lift Area (0.3651), Accessible Car Parking (0.2213) and Accessible Ramp Area (0.1383). Kaman Vocational School (Kaman MYO) was the most accessible (0.0430) and the School of Physical Education and Sports (BESYO) was the least accessible (0.14212).Research limitations/implications The study is limited to seven buildings and TS 9111 criteria. Future research should expand the data set, incorporate international standards and integrate the perceptions of disabled individuals alongside the SWARA-MAIRCA method for comprehensive analysis.Practical implications The SWARA-MAIRCA model provides administrations with a clear, prioritised list of essential areas (lift and parking) needing immediate improvement. This facilitates the efficient allocation of resources for inclusive campus design.Social implications By addressing identified deficiencies, the study contributes directly to fostering a more inclusive and equitable educational environment. This supports social participation and equal opportunities for disabled students and staff on campus.Originality/value This work's originality is the pioneering application of the hybrid SWARA-MAIRCA model for university accessibility evaluation. It offers an objective, practical and defendable basis for investment decisions.
Purpose Since the early 2000s, a number of purpose-built education hubs have been established globally, where students from different higher education institutions may share sports and recreational facilities, food courts, student accommodation and health services. The purpose of this study is to assess, from the students' perspective, the effectiveness of the shared campus concept.Design/methodology/approach The study adopted an inductive qualitative research design that involved a non-generalisable purposive sample. The data were obtained from semi-structured interviews with 38 undergraduate students who studied in a purpose-built transnational education hub in Malaysia or the United Arab Emirates (UAE).Findings It was found that students were largely satisfied with their experience of studying at a shared campus. In some cases, students' preference for a solely-owned university campus appeared to be more of a psychological desire, rather than being based on any failure of the hub to provide the necessary facilities, resources and activities.Practical implications The findings of the research suggest that, within a three-level nested servicescape, purpose-built education hubs may provide a viable solution for institutions to successfully establish a branch campus in a foreign country.Originality/value To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study that has explored the theoretical concept of a three-level nested servicescape (institution/purpose-built hub/town) in a higher education context, and specifically, in relation to student attitudes and experiences at purpose-built education hubs.
Purpose This study aims to examine how social networks and facility management interact to strengthen community resilience to climate change in vulnerable communities in northern Ghana. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative design was adopted, using semi-structured interviews with 15 purposively selected participants, comprising community leaders, local government officials, district-level technical personnel and non-governmental organisation representatives. Data were analysed through Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis, supported by interview transcripts, participant observation and field notes. Findings Four key themes emerged: social networks serve as critical resilience resources; facility management practices can actively strengthen social capital formation; community engagement in facility planning enhances sustainability; and contextual factors shape the effectiveness of interventions. The study developed an integrated framework demonstrating how facilities function as strategic platforms for catalysing social cohesion and adaptive capacity. Practical implications Policymakers and facility managers should institutionalise community participation, invest in adaptive public facilities and strengthen inter-organisational coordination. The framework provides actionable pathways for climate adaptation that leverage existing infrastructure and social structures. Originality/value The study advances an integrated empirical framework that shows how social networks, facility management processes and enabling governance conditions jointly shape community climate resilience in a developing-country context.
Purpose - This study aims to establish a baseline of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and perceived indoor environmental conditions in an older ward-style residential aged care facility prior to demolition, providing a benchmark for evaluating a purpose-built replacement in a companion study. In this study, "baseline" refers to minute-resolution distributions of real-world environmental exposure (typical ranges, exceedance proportions and peak frequencies) measured within the existing facility, rather than a single target value. Design/methodology/approach - A 14-day monitoring campaign (September-October 2024) was conducted in Perth, Western Australia, across a bedroom, lounge, activity room and corridor. Continuous measures of noise (dB(A)), illuminance (lux) and temperature (degrees C) were recorded using calibrated loggers (IC-NSRT calibrated acoustic dataloggers; HOBO MX2202 combined light and temperature dataloggers). Results were evaluated against WHO night-noise guidance (recommended night-time limits for sleep protection), AS/NZS 2107:2016, pragmatic circadian-light targets (=1000 lux daytime; =10 lux night) and literature indicating diurnal thermal variation = 2 degrees C. Parallel surveys co-developed with facility stakeholder perceptions (including staff and resident/proxy respondents) of noise, lighting and thermal comfort (staff: 23; residents/proxies: 24). Findings - Night-time bedroom sound levels exceeded WHO guidance for most monitored minutes, with intermittent peaks above 55 dB(A). Communal lounges exceeded the 45 dB(A) daytime guideline during most monitored periods. Daytime bedroom illuminance rarely achieved =30 min at =1,000 lux, while night-time exceedances above 10 lux occurred because of corridor spill. Temperatures were generally stable with limited day-night variation (<2 degrees C) in most spaces. Survey responses aligned with measured noise patterns but tended to normalise lighting conditions that fell short of circadian-supportive targets; thermal comfort was rated positively. Practical implications - The findings identify actionable priorities for redevelopment and interim operations, including acoustic buffering of bedrooms and corridors, daylight/circadian-supportive lighting provision, night-time spill control and more dynamic thermal zoning or scheduling. Originality/value - This study provides a rare pre-replacement baseline integrating continuous IEQ monitoring with stakeholder perceptions in residential aged care, enabling defensible same-site benchmarking against a purpose-built facility.
Purpose Large organizations receive numerous daily maintenance requests that must be assessed efficiently. Facility managers need rapid support to detect critical conditions and reduce functionality losses. A key performance indicators (KPIs)-based approach is introduced to quantify the relevance of intervention requests from a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS). This work aims to develop quick metrics to help facility managers monitor relative impacts across different locations and activity types.Design/methodology/approach A data set of about 17,000 maintenance requests from an Italian university was analyzed. Each request was categorized by activity type (based on Omniclass classification), priority and programmability. This information is combined through the analytical hierarchy process to define a Relevance Index (RI) measuring the impact of different building clusters on the overall health status of facilities.Findings RI provides a rapid overview of corrective maintenance needs and performance levels. Critical conditions are identified and compared, quantifying that the larger and most crowded buildings cluster (i.e. engineering faculty buildings) has the highest impact.Practical implications RI can be integrated within CMMS (and customized for other large organizations) to provide facility managers with a data-driven tool for evaluating requests relevance and facilities health status, ultimately contributing to safer and more functional workplaces.Originality/value The proposed methodology fills the current gap in rapid metric for automatically assessing the relevance of maintenance issues across building stocks. By translating unstructured maintenance requests into a quantifiable RI, the framework strengthens facility managers decision-making and benchmarking within and between assets.
PurposeThis study aims to use variables of the contingency theory to assess the influence of maintenance contingency factors on occupant behaviour in the use of energy in public university buildings in Ghana.Design/methodology/approachAligned with quantitative research, the study used survey to gather data from 456 senior members across 9 public universities in Ghana. Data gathered was analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling.FindingsThe findings revealed that situational factors of buildings and maintenance task structure have a significant influence on occupant energy use behaviour. Maintenance leadership style and leader-member relations were found to be statistically insignificant to occupant behaviour in the use of energy. However, they exhibit a hidden potential of indirect effect that is worth exploring.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of the study will encourage top university management to prioritise maintenance needs of existing buildings among other contingency factors to enhance building operations and efficient use of energy in university buildings.Originality/valueGrounded in the contingency theory, this study presents rare findings on the explanatory power of maintenance contingency factors in explaining the variance in occupant energy use behaviour in public university buildings.
Purpose This study aims to examine how open government data from S & atilde;o Paulo's Participe + participatory platform, in Brazil, can be analyzed through the lens of urban facilities management (UFM) to identify socio-spatial patterns of citizen participation and demonstrate how UFM provides a technical framework for converting collective demands into actionable and evidence-based public policies. By focusing on more than 3,000 citizen proposals submitted in 2025, the research investigates how civic participation reflects social priorities and how open data ecosystems can support managerial and technical decision-making in complex urban environments.Design/methodology/approach The research adopted a quantitative, exploratory observational design, using open administrative data from the Participe + platform. Data were processed in R using descriptive statistics, text mining and sentiment analysis to identify territorial, thematic and discursive patterns. The integration of these methods enabled a socio-spatial assessment of urban demands and their relationships with UFM's operational domains.Findings Results revealed that citizen participation is concentrated in categories such as urban maintenance, health and human rights, with positive sentiment predominating across proposals. However, authorship was highly concentrated in a few individuals, exposing asymmetries in engagement. The analysis highlights the importance of an exogenous perspective for facilities management (FM) professionals managing corporate assets in cities with open government data, suggesting that UFM can serve as a bridge between civic participation and evidence-based management.Research limitations/implications The study is limited to a single temporal cycle (August 2025) and to a single urban context. Future research should use longitudinal and comparative analyses across different cities, integrating big data analytics to assess the long-term impacts of citizen participation and its implications for UFM-based governance.Practical implications The results provide actionable insights for municipal managers and FM professionals by indicating that citizen demands are strongly linked to everyday urban maintenance and visible infrastructure services. Digital participatory platforms can thus enhance transparency, inform decision-making and align operational management with social priorities.Social implications The study highlights the role of digital participation platforms in enhancing transparency and enabling citizen engagement in urban governance. However, the concentration of authorship and unequal distribution of support reveal persistent asymmetries in participation. By framing citizen proposals as operational signals, UFM contributes to more inclusive and responsive public policies. The findings emphasize the need to expand participation diversity and address structural inequalities that influence civic engagement. Ultimately, the integration of open data and participatory mechanisms can strengthen democratic legitimacy and improve the quality of life by aligning public services with localized social demands.Originality/value This study advances the theoretical and practical understanding of UFM by connecting participatory governance, data analytics and FM. It introduces the notion that FM professionals require an exogenous, city-oriented perspective when operating in environments with accessible open data, thus contributing to more transparent, data-driven and socially legitimate urban governance.
Purpose This study aims to examine the challenges and opportunities of citizen-centered facilities management (CCFM) in Johannesburg’s inner city, with a focus on how participatory approaches can support sustainable urban renewal and improve the performance of mixed-use developments. Design/methodology/approach An interpretivist, qualitative research design was adopted. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 11 senior professionals involved in facilities management, property development, finance and urban governance. Data were analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis to identify key patterns related to participation, capacity, social value and governance. Findings The findings of this study reveal four key challenges: exclusion of residents from decision-making, resulting in weak ownership and accountability; significant skills and capacity gaps that limit community participation in facilities management; the critical social value of well-maintained facilities in enhancing safety, dignity and social cohesion; and fragmented and inconsistent governance structures that undermine effective coordination and long-term sustainability. This study finds that weak governance and limited community involvement are primary drivers of infrastructure deterioration, while participatory approaches can improve maintenance outcomes and social resilience. Research limitations/implications This study is limited by its small, supply-side sample and lack of direct community perspectives. This study is limited in the small sample that it used. Practical implications This study highlights the need for participatory governance structures, community training and cross-sector partnerships. Social implications CCFM can enhance inclusion, safety and quality of life in inner-city environments. Originality/value This study contributes to facilities management literature by integrating Social Infrastructure Theory, Network Governance Theory and the Capability Approach into a novel community-centered facilities management (CCFM) framework. This study advances the reconceptualization of UFM from a technical function to a socially embedded, participatory practice within the context of inner-city regeneration in the Global South.
Purpose Public buildings account for nearly half of global energy use, making them major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and rising operational costs. In Sharjah (UAE), rapid urbanization has amplified these challenges, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable retrofitting strategies aligned with national environmental goals. This study aims to address the lack of a comprehensive, context-specific framework for assessing and managing sustainability challenges in public buildings. Design/methodology/approach An expert-validated framework was developed using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and Matrix of Cross-Impact Multiplications Applied to Classification (MICMAC) analysis to identify, structure and prioritize the factors influencing public building sustainability. The approach integrates qualitative and quantitative analyses within Sharjah's (UAE) environmental and regulatory context. Local experts from construction, facility management and sustainability domains contributed to ensure contextual relevance and practical applicability. Findings The analysis reveals key driving factors and interrelationships, forming a hierarchical model that high-lights sustainable materials, eco-friendly refrigerants and water management systems as major enablers of sustainability. The framework supports data-driven decision-making for policymakers and practitioners, promoting efficient retrofitting and maintenance strategies. The results highlight sustainable construction materials, eco-friendly refrigerants and water management systems as the most influential drivers of sustainability and identifies strong interrelationships among factors, demonstrating that sustainability outcomes are driven by a network of interdependent variables rather than isolated actions. Originality/value This study presents one of the first integrated ISM-MICMAC frameworks tailored to public buildings in Sharjah (UAE). By combining modeling techniques with localized expert insights, it translates complex interdependencies into actionable sustainability strategies that advance national and global sustainability goals.
Purpose Effective emergency response systems are vital for minimising harm during crises in facilities. However, many organisations continue to face persistent barriers that hinder their ability to respond effectively. Despite existing efforts, these barriers remain insufficiently explored in a structured and analytical manner. Therefore, this study aims to explore the key barriers affecting emergency response systems in facilities. Design/methodology/approach This research used a quantitative, positivist paradigm to evaluate emergency response infrastructure in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. A total of 225 professionals, including facility managers, engineers, architects, building inspectors and National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) officers, were purposively selected from 43 districts and surveyed using structured questionnaires. The data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical tools. Findings The study uncovered nine critical barriers to implementing modern emergency infrastructure, accounting for one component, named “socio-technical barriers to emergency response”. The extracted factors include ineffective building by-laws, lack of consideration for social, cultural and religious norms in designing emergency response systems, limited funding, political interference, vulnerability to natural disasters, lack of knowledge or capacity, institutional weaknesses, rapid urbanisation and lack of capacity building. Practical implications The findings guide policymakers, facility managers and emergency agencies to address barriers such as weak building by-laws, limited resources and capacity gaps, improving emergency preparedness and response in facilities. Originality/value This study pinpoints socio-technical insights into emergency response barriers, contributing to disaster risk management knowledge, informing policy and supporting operational improvements.
