Bricolage: The Facilities Manager's Secret Weapon

I started my career in facilities management by working in a library system. Library budgets are usually tight to virtually nonexistent, and that often goes double for library facilities. My boss and I got really good at using what was at hand to keep the building in the best possible shape. It was only in 2024 that I learned this concept has a name, bricolage.

Turning Everyday Items into Extraordinary Solutions

Facilities managers are the unsung heroes of any organization, the problem-solvers who keep the lights on and the wheels turning. They're masters of efficiency, juggling budgets, maintenance schedules, and unexpected crises with the grace of a seasoned juggler. But even the most seasoned FM can benefit from a little creative thinking, and that's where the concept of "bricolage" comes in.

What is Bricolage?

Originally a French term, bricolage refers to the art of making do with what you have. It's about resourcefulness, improvisation, and ingenuity. Think of it as the DIY approach to problem-solving, where you use readily available materials and tools in unconventional ways to achieve a desired outcome.

Bricolage in Facilities Management

In the context of facilities management, bricolage can be a game-changer. It's about looking beyond the traditional solutions and finding creative ways to address challenges using existing resources. This could involve repurposing old equipment, finding new uses for discarded materials, or adapting existing tools for different tasks.

Benefits of Bricolage for Facilities Managers

Embracing bricolage can bring a multitude of benefits to facilities managers:

1. Cost Savings: By repurposing and reusing materials, you can significantly reduce your expenses on new equipment and supplies.

2. Increased Efficiency: Bricolage encourages you to find quick and creative solutions, minimizing downtime and disruptions.

3. Sustainability: Reusing and repurposing materials reduces waste and promotes environmental responsibility.

4. Improved Problem-Solving Skills: Bricolage encourages creative thinking and resourcefulness, enhancing your problem-solving abilities.

5. Boosted Morale: Finding innovative solutions can be incredibly rewarding, boosting your team's morale and sense of accomplishment.

Examples of Bricolage in Action

Here are a few examples of how bricolage can be applied in facilities management:

1. Repurposing old furniture: Instead of discarding old chairs or desks, consider repurposing them. An old desk could be turned into a workbench, while old chairs could be reupholstered and used in a break room.

2. Using scrap materials for repairs: Instead of buying new materials for minor repairs, consider using scrap materials like wood, metal, or fabric.

3. Adapting tools for different tasks: A simple tool like a wrench can be adapted for various tasks, from tightening bolts to opening paint cans.

4. Creating storage solutions from unexpected items: Old crates, pallets, and even PVC pipes can be used to create innovative and cost-effective storage solutions.

Tips for Implementing Bricolage

Ready to embrace the art of bricolage? Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Cultivate a "maker" mindset: Encourage yourself and your team to think outside the box and look for creative solutions.

2. Inventory your resources: Take stock of all the materials and equipment you have on hand, even those that seem irrelevant.

3. Embrace experimentation: Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. Not every idea will work, but the process of experimentation can lead to unexpected solutions.

4. Collaborate and share ideas: Encourage your team to share their ideas and collaborate on finding creative solutions.

5. Celebrate successes: Recognize and celebrate successful examples of bricolage to foster a culture of innovation.

Bricolage and Sustainability

Bricolage is not just about saving money; it's also about promoting sustainability. By reusing and repurposing materials, you're reducing waste and minimizing your environmental impact. This aligns with the growing trend of sustainable facilities management, which emphasizes resource efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Bricolage in the Digital Age

In today's digital age, bricolage can also extend to the use of technology. This could involve using online resources to find DIY solutions, repurposing old computers for new tasks, or using mobile apps for facilities management.

Conclusion

Bricolage is more than just a fancy French word; it's a powerful mindset that can transform the way you approach facilities management. By embracing resourcefulness, creativity, and a "can-do" attitude, you can unlock new levels of efficiency, sustainability, and problem-solving. So, the next time you face a challenge, remember the art of bricolage and ask yourself: "How can I solve this with what I already have?"

Making do the best I can, thanks for reading,

Jason Kinikin, CFM, SFP

IFMA CC Communication Committee