Facility Managers can take a leadership role in reducing costs for their organizations by examining areas that may not have received much attention before. Here are key things you can do.

A key responsibility of Facility Managers has been to provide the physical environment and related services that enables your corporation to be successful at its core business.

During the current economy, the focus has to be on the lowest possible costs to boost the bottom line and counter steep cut in revenues.

With revenue down almost across the board, you can demonstrate the value of a professional FM and add a key accomplishment to your resume by closely examining areas where you can reduce costs and by taking decisive action - especially in areas that may not have been considered before or may not have received much attention during the good years.

There are several opportunities you can consider, depending on your portfolio. They all relate to money going out the door to landlords, suppliers, utility companies and others.

Some of those costs can stay out, while others should be put back in when the economy picks up, otherwise you may end up with additional long-term expenses. Immediate cost reductions are certainly the goal, but don't pass over good opportunities just because the rewards will be months out - the need to lower costs will continue for a while.

First, the physical space itself is a significant cost where you can benefit if your company's situation has reduced space requirements. Examine your leased space, the markets you are in, the termination dates and renewal options. While you may not realize significant benefits, consider it as of a cost avoidance initiative - even a sublease at net rent will relieve you of the operating cost portion of the rent. Work with your landlord to negotiate reductions in energy and cleaning costs for vacant space and ensure they are doing what they can to reduce their operating costs in the building - and get them to pass it along now, not next year during the annual CAM adjustment exercise.

Beware, however, of long term fixes that may box you in when the economy picks up and you need to be nimble to respond and beat your competition. What's important is to squeeze whatever you can out of the portfolio - and be seen to be proactively addressing the situation.

For owned space, consolidate and shut down unused offices to save operating and energy costs while you carefully examine the operating expenses. Have a discussion with your service providers and get them to identify areas where they can reduce real costs, such as reducing some services or cutting back on scope. This can include stretching out periodic activities, for instance, to reduce the total annual cost.

For larger portfolios, an often overlooked item is late fees for utility payments and even inaccurate utility readings. Set up a process to ensure prompt payment and review utility readings carefully, including the price and calculations.