Virtuality - What does it mean for FM?

It has been speculated that virtuality will have a dramatic impact on the use and design of physical space. Especially for those involved in facilities management (FM), this trend is already easily observable. This study aims to clarify what virtuality really means for facilities management. The clarification is backed by taking a view of what virtuality is and what it could be to companies from different industry sectors. The study was conducted by reviewing literature on virtuality as well as collecting and analyzing data on the case companies. In the literature review, two different concepts of virtuality were identified. Problems arise when the concept of virtuality used is not clearly specified. The term, as well as many other terms related to the subject, is often misused. This paper provides examples of the division and then further explains the roles of the two different virtualities in facilities management. Findings conclude that companies in the industry seem to leave a lot of virtuality’s potential untapped and that more consistent and precise use of terms is needed.