What To Do When Budgets Force Streamlined Processes

When you become aware of a customer needing to cut back on custodial services you need to have already thought through the best approach to helping them through this difficult period.  Since you are the professional, you should be able to analyze their current situation and make recommendations that will give them the most “bang for their buck.”  

The reality is that if they are going to make cuts in their budget, they will probably start with services.  One major airline cut their services in the back offices to the bare bones during a downturn and focused on front counters and areas exposed to the public.  When the economy improved, they added additional services as their budget allowed.

An effective Plan B should take a critical look at all the tasks/frequencies being performed with a goal of prioritizing that the customer considers most important.  Some ideas include:

1.Having staff empty their own trash cans in a centralized container.  These larger units would only be pulled once per week.  Of course, they must be reminded to only dispose of food in assigned trash cans that are emptied more often to reduce the chance of bugs, vermin, etc.

2.Providing spray cleaner and cloths/wipes for staff to clean their own desks, computers, phones, etc.  It is suggested a disinfectant be provided as well as posters or training so they understand its safe use.  Training and charts may be necessary.

3.Vacuuming less often but slower so that the unit can capture dust.  This means that a quality back pack or upright vacuum cleaner is kept serviced with the best filtration possible to reduce dust.  

Plan B can work if the BSC can educate the customer on Custodial Best Practices and get staff cooperation of common goals.  We will continue to take a look at the differences in Plan A, B and C in future articles.

Your comments and questions are always welcome. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean...

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678.314.2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.