Two words facility maintenance distributors and their customers are likely to be using much more in coming years are "analytical solutions."
 
Analytical solutions involve analyzing large amounts of data in order to address an end-customer's specific needs; typically, this requires the use of computers and web-based technologies. 
 
When used properly, it can elevate a distributor's performance and improve working relationships with their customers. It also helps distributors "tune in" to their customers' needs, bringing to light important business-building information, such as: 
• Why certain products are selected
• What products are likely to be purchased in the future from specific customers and why
• Advanced purchasing consistency
• Improvements in the quality of decision-making purchases for both the distributor and client
• Greater transparency
• Overall improvement in customer satisfaction.

"Many end-customers are struggling when it comes to making wise product decisions," says Leah Runge,  AFFLINK eLev8 Marketing and Training Manager. "Using analytical tools provides distributors and end-customers [with] the information and insight necessary to make the procurement process easier and more effective."
 
Historically, facility maintenance purchasing decisions have relied on limited amounts of information on a limited number of specific products. According to Runge, this will not work in the 21st century.
 
However, in recent years, some facility maintenance distributors have started using analytical tools, which are expected to become more commonplace in the professional cleaning industry in the future.
 
"The end-customer is demanding much more from [facility maintenance] distributors and this will certainly increase in coming years," says Runge. "Today, operating and maintaining a facility is very complex. The use of analytical solutions helps work through this complexity, improve customer care, enhance operational efficiency, and [will] likely prove to be a cost savings for end-customers as well."