Starting out in FM

02 June 2011

An online training tool has been launched by BIFM that aims to provide an introduction to facilities management.

Designed for new operational FMs or those with related responsibilities, the package provides a highly practical, hands-on-guide to the basics of good practice facilities management based on 'real life' expertise.

Although primarily aimed at those new to the industry, Getting Started in FM may also provide a refresher for experienced FMs looking to reinforce existing knowledge of best practice. BIFM also believes that the package could provide a useful pre-course taster for those who are going on to take a full face-to-face course, particularly the flagship foundation programme ‘Understanding Facilities Management’.

‘Getting Started in FM’ should take approximately four hours to complete but it can be tackled at the users own pace to work through the four key learning modules, which can be revisited at any stage. The four modules are: Knowing your building (and the role of the FM), FM Support Service, FM Projects, and Health and Safety / Sustainability. Each of the four modules includes good practice information on the relevant topic areas, as well as example tasks, checklists, references and web‐links. Key concepts and terminology are clearly explained, and the highly visual format is designed to maximise interest and engagement. Self‐assessed quizzes provide an opportunity to test understanding of key learning points and facts as learners progress.

Each learner receives a personalised certificate on completion of the programme which can be added to a Continuing Professional Development record.

The course is available on a 90 day license period, either to individuals or corporate groups in the UK and overseas, and package customisation is available to companies who want to tailor or develop additional content to suit their specific needs. Cost for an individual who is a BIFM member is £120 + VAT with costs rising to £150 + VAT for non-members.