A new framework, the International Building Operation Standard (IBOS), has been developed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) which is expected to improve building use and support more flexible working environments.

The Framework has been unveiled as an interactive framework, supported by an assessment tool, to measure and benchmark building performance, by collecting ‘consistent’ data to fulfil the needs of occupiers, investors, advisors, and end users. According to the RICS Global Commercial Property Monitor, 85% of respondents are seeing a growing demand for more flexible workspaces.

RICS expects that IBOS will support organisations to entice people back to the workplace, by delivering confidence that their workplace supports their wellbeing, and demonstrating success against improvements in an organisation’s carbon footprint.

The standard has been haled as the ‘first of its kind’ worldwide to deliver a consistent approach to assist organisations assess and improve building performance across the board.

RICS acknowledge that many organisations already monitor performance but, according to respondents to the RICS Global Commercial Property Monitor, only 67% consider current techniques and practices in place accurately measure the environmental impact, and those that are in place need further development.

With the publication of the Framework, RICS has sent a clear message that the way buildings are used is changing, environmental concerns are very much being brought to the fore, attitudes to health and wellbeing are evolving and workers’ expectation of the workplace are far more refined. It is therefore vital that organisations’ approach to decision-making in the use of space and IBOS will provide a tool to bring together cost, people, and technologies to enhance the experience for all stakeholders.

The standard will be supported by a free self-assessment tool which is due for release in the first half of 2022.

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