What type of study is this?

This is a Literature Review study (also classified as: Systematic Review).

August 21, 2025

Integration of technology in decision-making in university facilities management: a literature review

Key Points

Findings reveal that technological integration improves decision-making in facilities management at universities, particularly in developed regions.
The literature suggests a lack of research contributions from Africa, indicating a need for greater adoption of smart technologies in facilities management.
Analysis includes quantitative results visualized through VOSviewer, revealing clusters in technology integration, the built environment, and sustainability.
Addressing the research gap, the study proposes a framework for implementing technology in facilities operations and maintenance, which may enhance decision-making.

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.

Mark Helpful

Bookmark

Relay