ABSTRACT
The tool is based on an investigation of how different forms of collaboration with external providers influence the provision of Facilities Management (FM) services concerning productivity, quality, earnings, innovation, knowledge sharing, trust and conflict solving. The investigation made a fundamental distinction between FM provisions characterised by standardised production and non-standardised production. The tool is aimed at the main decision makers who shall ensure that the organisation and provision of FM function is appropriate. The tool distinguishes between the following four forms of collaboration with external providers: one-time tasks, continued tasks, without agreed upon time limits, continued tasks, with agreed upon time limits and operational partnerships. Operational partnerships are the most advanced of these with regard to long-term collaboration based on close relationships between the client and provider. A model for solving conflicts is typically included based on conflicts to be solved by dialogue at the level where the conflicts occur and with a possible escalation route to higher management levels.
