Innovation characteristics and intention to adopt sustainable facilities management practices

Abstract

Sustainable facilities management (SFM) is important because typical buildings consume more resources and energy than necessary, negatively impact the environment and generate lots of waste (US Department of Energy, 2003, Green Buildings). This study examined innovation characteristics that relate to facility managers' intention to adopt SFM practices. Based on the diffusion of innovations theory (Rogers 1962, 1995, Diffusion of Innovations. 4th ed. New York: The Free Press), an SFM innovation and adoption model was proposed. A survey was conducted with a convenience sample of 240 public facilities managers in 25 facilities management divisions in Seoul, Korea, and its metropolitan areas. Structural equation modelling was employed to analyse the data. The results showed that economic advantage and human comfort aspects are predictors for the intention of SFM adoption. Observability is positively relevant to the intention of SFM adoption. Complexity, however, is not a significant predictor for the intention of SFM adoption. Practical implications for sustainable products and systems and the built environment are suggested.

Practitioner summary: To incorporate an innovation like sustainable practices, it is required to meet the needs of potential adopters. Innovation characteristics that influence facility managers' intention to adopt sustainable facilities management were examined. A survey was conducted. Economic advantage, human comfort and observability are predictors for the intention of adoption of sustainable practice.

Keywords:

• sustainability
• adoption
• facilities management
• public buildings

Acknowledgements

The principal investigator of this research appreciates help from the Asan Foundation and the survey participants in the facilities management divisions in Dobong-gu, Dongjak-gu, Eunpyeong-gu, Gangbuk-gu, Gangnam-gu, Gwanak-gu, Jongno-gu, Jung-gu, Nowon-gu, Seodaemun-gu, Seongbuk-gu, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Yongsan-gu, SH Corporation, City of Seoul, Anseong-si Goyang-si, Gwacheon-si, Osan-si, Paju-si, Suwon-si, Seongnam-si, Hwaseong-si, in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do Province.