It can be difficult to calculate and mitigate your cleaning budget, particularly now, after the uncertain climate of the last couple of years and the pandemic’s various effects on labour, supply chain, and other aspects of day-to-day work. Throw in other rising costs like gas prices, and exercising cost control has arguably never been tougher.
John Goetz of Hydro Systems, a leader in delivering chemical dispensing and dosing solutions, summarized for CMM Online how companies can get the clearest picture possible of their bottom line.
While calculating the total cost of a cleaning program is complex, certain factors must be considered such as resources, equipment, and salaries and training of staff. Equipment, for instance, doesn’t just consume energy; it requires an upfront investment and ongoing care over the span of its life. On the flip side, Goetz notes, the right equipment can reduce labour costs by streamlining your operations.
Failing to optimize any of these facets can increase the costs of others, so developing a strategic operational plan is vital, as is investing in the right resources, reliable and easy-to-use equipment, and qualified employees.
The role of data
Goetz adds that organizations can glean many conclusions from data, which can, in turn, help them to optimize their operations and streamline their costs.
For instance, certain technologies like IoT-enabled dispensers, intelligent floor care machines, smart laundry dispensers, and mobile time tracking can enable managers to leverage data that can lead to savings.
Quantifying cleanliness
Goetz emphasizes that assigning accurate cost control of your cleaning process requires analyzing the necessary resources, equipment, and people, and keeping them in balance going forward. While many of these expenses are recurring, they are significantly lower than the costs associated with lapses in cleanliness, such as damage to brand image, illness and injury, noncompliance, and even temporary or permanent business closures.
“Technology can support cleanliness and give organizations greater visibility into their operations. When combined with a commitment to asset management and employee training, these solutions can accelerate improvements and cost savings, thereby maximizing cleaning program budgets,” concludes Goetz.
