SMART FM SOLUTIONS FOR TOWN COUNCILS

Abstract

Before the launch of Smart Nation in 2014, various strategies and programs were in place to improve Singapore’s infrastructure to ensure it was digitally ready. Subsequently, the Smart Nation and Digital Government Office (SNDGO) was established to kickstart the Smart Nation initiatives. Numerous strategic national projects have thus been launched till today. To accelerate the growth as a Smart Nation, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and the Ministry of National Development (MND) have put forth various transformation maps and digital guidelines as well. In addition, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) has been pushing for smart solutions to develop Smart Towns within Singapore.

With at least 78.7% of Singapore’s total population residing in HDB dwellings, the development of Smart Towns holds significance. These Smart Towns could potentially improve the quality of lives of residents and promote greater business opportunities as well. However, there seems to be a lack of strategies by the Town Councils to operate and maintain the Smart FM solutions implemented. Additionally, Town Councils play a key role in ensuring that the residents’ needs and concerns within the towns are met.

This research paper aims to examine the FM performance of town councils and the potential of implementing Smart FM solutions within the towns. This is to understand the benefits, detriments, and suitability of various Smart FM solutions from the perspectives of the stakeholders involved. Hence, interview sessions were conducted with the HDB and Town Council Professionals. Residents’ satisfaction levels of the current Town Council performance, as well as their perception of Smart FM solutions, were also assessed via a survey questionnaire. Subsequently, a Smart FM solution guide with perspectives gathered from the stakeholders as well as improvement areas was proposed. Future potential Smart FM solutions for township management were also identified.