THE BENEFITS OF FLEXIBLE SPACE MANAGEMENT IN A COMMUNITY CENTRE

Abstract

The first Community Centre (CC) in Singapore was set up in 1946 by the Colonial Office in London to foster the community development in the various colonies under its control. However, it is the People's Action Party (PAP) leaders, who upon assumption of political control in 1959, decided to change the role of the CCs. However, the current CC facility management approach is not much different from that of the initial setup. As such, CCs have been facing difficulties in attracting residents to take part in their courses and activities. One of the prime reasons is the lack of flexibility in space planning in CCs. It is in this light that this study examines the theory that the lack of awareness and support from the Community Centre Management Committee (CCMC) is the main factor affecting the adoption of Flexible Space Management (FSM) in CCs. Research has also illustrated the importance of Facilities Management (FM) that has gained widespread use in other countries and industries. This can be particularly relevant to Singapore considering its scarcity of land. FM has also helped many industries cope with fast changing, competitiveness and corresponding environment. And for the CCs, they could and should maximize the potential of FSM to fulfil its social and community roles with greater gusto.