Outsourcing as an approach for facilities management service delivery in social housing within a semi-arid climate.

Abstract

Outsourcing is an approach for facilities management (FM) service delivery through external service providers but has however remained relatively unexplored. The purpose of this study is to explore its use as a relevant approach for FM service delivery in social housing within a semi-arid climate. Using a cross-sectional questionnaire survey, ninety (90) questionnaires were administered; and a total of 49 (54%) were retrieved. Data collected were analyzed descriptively and inferentially using frequency and percentages, mean index, and standard deviations with Stata 11.0 statistical tool. Pearson’s chi-square test and mean ranking were performed to determine the relationship between respondents’ demography and FM sourcing approach. Findings among others reveal that, out of the four types of FM sourcing approaches (In-house, outsourcing, public-private partnership, and total facilities management), outsourcing has been most appropriate and beneficial due to cost reduction, accessibility to skills, expertise, and ideas, making cost transparent, reducing depreciation and obsolescence, and accessibility to new products in order of benefits. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the development of FM strategies and the adoption of outsourcing for FM service delivery in social housing within a semi-arid climate. Therefore, the paper recommends IFMA and other FM professionals launch advocacy on the potentialities of adopting outsourcing for FM service delivery in social housing and the housing sector in general.