Integration of technology in decision-making in university facilities management: a literature review
Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed, Christopher Amoah
Abstract
Purpose In Africa, Facilities Management (FM) remains underdeveloped, hindered by conventional practices, weak technological adoption and resistance to change. This study highlights the need for a paradigm shift towards technology-driven FM strategies. This study aims to comprehensively reviewed empirical articles to analyse the influence of technological integration on decision-making in university FM. Design/methodology/approach This study analyses and categorises existing research on technology integration in FM within university settings. Scopus-indexed literature from 2018–2023 was reviewed and visualised using VOSviewer software to generate quantitative (descriptive) results. Content analysis was used to complement the quantitative findings, enhancing the insights and providing a more comprehensive understanding of the research. Findings The findings revealed a concentration of research in the UK, the USA and China, with no contributions from Africa. The identified knowledge areas are grouped into four clusters: technological integration in FM, smart technologies, the built environment, decision-making, technological tools and sustainable technological integration. Originality/value This study systematically reviews existing literature to explore diverse applications of technologies in facilities operations and maintenance. It addresses a critical research gap by focusing on the integration of technology in FM. By presenting these applications and proposing an implementation framework, the study provides new insights into the role of FM technology integration in enhancing the university decision-making processes as a pioneer study in Africa.