Over the last few years, the cleaning industry worldwide has undergone remarkable transformation driven by innovation, more so in North America and Europe but Asia is fast catching up. As technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace, the cleaning industry is also caught up and reacting to the market situation to increase its innovative products and services. However, in a bid to stay ahead, many products have been developed without attention to market requirements or understanding of the needs of cleaning services providers, and thus were not seen as innovations as the added-value and product unique selling points were not clearly defined nor understood.
Traditionally, the commercial cleaning industry relied heavily on manual labour and equipment, with contracts primarily based on headcount of cleaners and the frequency of cleaning, with labour accounting for 80% to 90% of the costs. However, in the past decade, the industry has undergone a significant transformation, shifting from a headcount-based model to an outcome-based approach. Under this new model, the focus is on achieving desired cleaning results, leaving the specific cleaning process details to the cleaning company's professional judgment.
This transition allows for greater flexibility in exploring and adopting new technology solutions, even if their full potential or results take time to materialise. The outcome-based approach empowers cleaning companies to utilise their expertise in delivering satisfactory outcomes, optimise resource allocation and improve operational efficiency.
Avenues With the Highest Potential for Technology Adoption
One prominent area of innovation is the development and adoption of advanced cleaning technologies where traditional cleaning methods are being augmented or replaced by automated solutions that streamline processes, increase productivity and improve overall cleanliness. These technologies include:
- Robotic Cleaners
Artificial intelligence robots have gained significant acceptance, capable of autonomously navigating and cleaning large areas, reducing labour costs and ensuring consistent performance. They can navigate and clean large areas with minimal human intervention and some can even be programmed to clean at designated times.
- Digitalisation
Smart sensors and Internet of Things devices are being integrated into cleaning equipment, allowing for real-time monitoring, data collection and predictive maintenance, optimising resource allocation and reducing downtime. They can detect occupancy levels thus reducing unnecessary cleaning in unoccupied spaces. Digital management systems centralise and automate crucial processes, reducing manual errors, improving workflow and providing real-time insights that enable managers to make data-driven decisions for optimal service delivery.
- Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Green or sustainable products are developed to promote healthier living and minimise environmental impact. They are usually non-toxic and biodegradable, significantly reducing the risk of chemical exposure to cleaning professionals and occupants.
Is Your Company Ready to Adopt Technology?
While innovation brings numerous benefits such as improved efficiency, enhanced service quality, and sustainability, it often comes with a price tag that must be carefully managed to ensure economic viability. Things to consider:
- Cost – evaluate the upfront investment and ongoing costs to implement new technologies, upgrade equipment and transitioning to eco-friendly products.
- Return on Investment – assess the long-term benefits in terms of increased efficiency, productivity and cost savings.
- Suitability – consider if the new technology is suitable or right for your office space, shopping mall or factory, as well as equipment and systems, to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
- Training and support – evaluate the training requirements for staff to effectively operate, maintain and troubleshoot the new technology.
- Sustainability – consider if energy consumption, water usage and chemical waste generation is aligned with your company’s sustainability goals and environmental compliances. Evaluate the long-term strategic goals and objectives and if the use of these new technology aligns and will help achieve them.
Finding a balance between the cost of innovation and affordability is a complex challenge. It is a transformative process and requires careful evaluation. It is also crucial to understand that the benefits of adopting new cleaning technology, including increased efficiency, productivity and improved service quality, often materialise over time. This strategic investment requires patience, planning and a long-term perspective for the desired results to be realised.
References:
1. DTO Research. (2020). How the cleaning industry is approaching innovation: Facts, trends and outlook for Europe.