Leveraging data for smarter facility management: An interview with Peter Hug

The cleaning industry is undergoing a digital transformation, driven by the increasing availability of data in smart buildings. To explore this shift, we spoke with Peter Hug, a European expert in building efficiency, sustainability, and cleaning technologies, and European Board Member of Facility Data Standard (FDS). Peter shared his insights on how data is reshaping cleaning practices, improving efficiency, and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.

Can you give an example of how data analysis has led to new ways of cleaning within smart buildings?

With the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive pushing for smarter, more efficient buildings, data is becoming central to facility management.

“We now have more data available, which means we can ensure that only the rooms that have been occupied are cleaned," Peter explains. "For example, if a meeting room hasn’t been used all day, it doesn’t need cleaning. This targeted approach reduces waste, optimises resources, and saves energy”

He also highlights how new business models are emerging in response to these developments, helping the cleaning industry become more adaptive and efficient.

How can businesses measure the return on investment (ROI) from this approach?

Implementing data-driven cleaning strategies requires investment, but the return can be significant.

“Typically, smartening up a building—by integrating building information systems—has a payback period of around two to four years, or sometimes up to six years," Peter notes. "This applies not only to energy savings but also to cleaning efficiency”

By reducing unnecessary cleaning and optimising scheduling, businesses can lower labour costs and resource consumption, leading to long-term financial and environmental benefits.

How can data help facility managers make decisions about cleaning in terms of scheduling and resources?

Having access to real-time occupancy data is a game-changer.

“If you don’t have data, you’re working blindly," Peter says. "But when you know which spaces have been used, you can prioritise cleaning efforts accordingly”

He also points out the role of automation: cleaning robots can operate in empty buildings without lighting or heating, significantly reducing energy use. "Robots don’t need air conditioning, and they don’t need a heated environment—so they can clean in the dark while consuming far less energy."

How can facilities and cleaning service providers ensure data transparency while still protecting people’s privacy and keeping data secure?

Data privacy remains a major concern, particularly in Europe, where strict GDPR as well the Data Act regulations govern its use.

“Many people are afraid of giving their personal data to a cleaning provider, even though they willingly share it with social media platforms," Peter observes”

To address these concerns, FDS ensures that their framework does not store or infringe on personal data. "Within the FDS world, we make sure that no personal data is collected, so privacy is never compromised."

Are there any challenges hindering the wider adoption in the industry and how can we overcome these challenges?

Despite the clear benefits, adoption of data-driven cleaning is progressing slowly.

“Buildings last a long time, and upgrading them with sensors, meters, and digital tools takes time and investment," Peter explains. "Unlike mobile phones, which get replaced every couple of years, buildings evolve at a much slower pace”

However, he believes that the labour shortage in the cleaning sector is accelerating change. "We are being forced to use more technology because we simply don’t have enough workforce. The key is ensuring that digital solutions make cleaners' jobs easier—otherwise, they won’t be adopted."

Looking ahead, what do you think data will do for cleaning in the future? Any upcoming trends?

The role of data in cleaning will only grow, driven by new regulations like the EU Data Act.

“The EU Data Act is introducing data transparency rules, requiring raw and pre-processed data to be made available for free to the user of a connected product and against a compensation to any third party as long as this is requested by the user," Peter highlights. "It will be up to us to turn that raw and pre-processed data into valuable insights for the industry”

This means that the future of cleaning will be defined by smarter decision-making, more efficient processes, and increased automation, all powered by data.

Conclusion

The cleaning industry is moving towards a more data-driven, efficient, and sustainable future. With the right approach, businesses can reduce waste, cut costs, and improve service quality, all while complying with privacy laws. As Peter emphasises, data is there, it’s up to us to use it wisely.