3 Ways The Workplace Management Software Landscape Is Changing

As the role of facility managers and workplace leaders have evolved, so has workplace management software.

The landscape of IWMS providers and vendors selling related solutions has become more crowded in recent years, making it difficult for even savvy buyers to navigate.

To save some time, Verdantix, an independent research and consulting firm, reviewed 23 providers in its latest report, Product Benchmark: Space & Workplace Management Software, to see how they compare in a number of key areas. The results gave iOFFICE the highest overall score and the highest score for workplace services, which speaks to our ability to provide connected experiences for employees as well as workplace leaders.

The report also highlights three important trends about the changing marketplace for workplace management software.

3 Workplace Management Software Trends You Need To Know

1. Space Management Capabilities Are Becoming Standard

Space management software is the foundation for workplace management systems, allowing workplace leaders to view critical space utilization data and act on it.

In evaluating space management capabilities, Verdantix asked vendors to complete an assessment questionnaire, disclose examples of customers using their software and run a live product demonstration. It then scored each solution on a scale of 0 to 3 (with 0 meaning no functionality and 3 meaning best-in-class).

Verdantix rated all solutions it evaluated a 1 or above for space management, “indicating a high degree of standardization that covers all the basics of space monitoring needs.” According to the report, the differences between systems come down to their data collection capabilities.

While some solutions have a simple network tracking user sign-ons, others (including iOFFICE) have the ability to integrate with employee directories, badge swipe systems and IoT sensors.

The best space management software also includes comprehensive move management tools, which plan moves and use work orders to help leaders coordinate move tasks and track projects.

2. Vendors Are Emphasizing Employee Productivity

Workplace management software providers are increasingly focused on providing services that improve employee productivity.

For instance, several solutions have introduced applications such as wayfinding and room booking to support a more agile work environment.

“The standout feature of a space scheduling platform in 2019 is the ease with which occupants can reserve rooms according to capacity, layout, location and availability, via multiple touchpoints and a user-friendly interface,” the report states.

The highest-rated vendors also demonstrated how easily they can push data into meeting room analytic modules, auto-release reserved rooms when participants don’t show up and synchronize with Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft Outlook and other online calendar applications.

3. More Vendors Are Able to Measure And Improve Employee Wellness

The most impactful workplace services not only improve productivity; they also improve employee wellness.

In today’s workplace, wellness is about more than having fresh fruit in the lunchroom. It’s also about making sure your workforce feels safe in the workplace, and they have the peace of mind and being comfortable.

That’s why the best workplace management software offers employees an easy way to give feedback about their workplace and the ability to request services via mobile apps or interactive screens.

It also gives them a secure way to check-in visitors so they feel safe.

How to Find The Best Workplace Management Software

There are many factors to consider when purchasing workplace management software.

In its report, Verdantix recommends looking for solutions that:

• Are easy to use, yet robust
• Combine many aspects of real estate portfolio management in a single platform
• Are easy to integrate with other workplace technology
• Deliver accurate insights at minimal cost
• Provide sophisticated tools to model different space planning scenarios (such as reconfiguring or “restacking” your space using an interactive stacking diagram)
• Integrate with vendors providing other workplace services, such as parking management, catering or food delivery

Asking these eight questions can help you choose the right solution.

To learn more about the workplace management software landscape and how iOFFICE compares to other solutions, download the full Verdantix Product Benchmark: Space and Workplace Software report.