Empowering Building Owners, Facilities Managers, and Service Providers with Robotics and AI

BOSTON—The building services industry is entering a new era, with robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) transforming how services are delivered, measured, and managed. With these advances, facilities are cleaner, safer, and smarter for owners and occupants. Furthermore, cleaning services are becoming more efficient and better aligned with the needs of modern buildings and their occupants.

Tim Cullinan, Senior Vice President of Janitronics Building Services, spoke on a panel about integrating smart technology into commercial cleaning services. Advances in technology and autonomous cleaning devices are getting stronger and more efficient. However, Cullinan says it’s important to remember that while technology can enhance the overall productivity and efficiencies, it is not a replacement for the human workforce.

“Robotics and autonomous cleaning devices continue to become very efficient, but it’s more of a supplement to overall cleaning associates and the work performed,” he explained.

The time robotics can save allows for other tasks to be done simultaneously, thus creating efficiencies for the workforce and the building owners. “This [AI/robotics] is an answer for all … this isn’t about impacting jobs and positions, it’s about supplementing the workforce, and empowering them,” says Cullinan.

One of the most visible signs of this tech shift is the increasing use of robotic cleaning machines. Today’s commercial-grade robots can scrub floors, vacuum carpets, and even clean windows in office towers, malls, airports, and hospitals. Typically powered by AI, these machines can navigate complex floor layouts autonomously using light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and computer vision. They can also optimize cleaning routes based on usage and foot traffic. For example, a robotic floor scrubber in an office can map the layout once and then adjust its cleaning path depending on which areas see the most traffic on a given day.

For building owners, facility managers, and cleaning service providers, embracing this technology shift is more than just innovation; it’s about staying competitive in an increasingly tech-driven world.

Watch the full webinar “Integrating Smart Tech” here: https://cmmonline.com/articles/integrating-smart-tech-revolutionizing-your-cleaning-practice-with-ai