Although it is easy to show that some buildings cost more to run
and operate than others, few people take the trouble to collect
evidence and make the comparisons - reflecting the relatively low
priority given to buildings in business. Reductions in costs can be
significant to company profitability, yet it is a difficult matter to
provide a convincing and fully costed argument for making changes
to reduce future expenditure, especially where investment is
required and where the benefits cannot be easily quantified.
Indications are that significant savings are possible in most building
costs in use. Indirect cost reductions may be achieved by
reorganisation or by encouraging behavioural changes which will
enable the building to be used to its full potential. However, direct
cost savings may be made by changes to the physical fabric and
positive steps can be taken in managing buildings to benefit from