The word 2020 written on highway road in the middle of empty asphalt road at golden sunset and beautiful blue sky. Concept for new year 2020.

CONTRIBUTED BY SEGURA & ASSOCIATES

While no one has a crystal ball, it looks like 2020 is shaping up to be a good year for the economy, which means it will likely be a good year for cleaning contractors.

Further, a healthy economy means more organizations will focus on the value of cleaning — protecting human health and facility assets — and less on cost issues. 

These are just some of the predictions from Ron Segura, president of Segura Associates, a San Mateo, California-based company that consults cleaning contractors in both North and South America, helping them build their businesses and streamline business operations.

However, Segura sees more things ahead for cleaning contractors in 2020, such as the following:

AI Technology

"2020 will be the big tipping point for technology in our industry,” says Segura. “Robots and artificially intelligence-powered equipment will become commonplace."

Smartphones

“Smartphones will become our most essential tool,” says Segura. “They'll receive messages from building sensors regarding cleaning issues; use sensors to deliver messages to building managers and supervisors; store service requests; foster far better communicate with our clients; store videos on how to use equipment or perform cleaning duties; and much more. No cleaning professional will be able to work without one.”

Software

We now have software that helps contractors submit bids, “but new software programs will be introduced that are more intuitive, easier to use, help handle workflow, supply needs, and provide far better accuracy when it comes to bidding,” says Segura.

Training

"In order to make these technologies work, cleaning workers will need to learn how to use them and understand all the benefits they bring to the table.”

New Floor Surfaces

Expect more floor surfaces, like nano tiles, to be introduced in 2020. These floor surfaces have repellant properties, helping them stay cleaner, longer.

"Not all changes in 2020 will involve technology," says Segura. "Contractors are going to put more emphasis on humanizing their companies. They will want their staff to know the history of their companies and the vision and mission of the company. This builds company loyalty and can help reduce worker turnover."