How to Think Like an FM Analyst

What does it mean to “think like an FM analyst”? In this episode of Connected FM, Dr. Matt Tucker, Director of Knowledge and Insights at IFMA, sits down with Drew DePriest, Director of Workplace Services, Vendor Management at Salesforce, to unpack the evolving role of data, analytics and AI in facility management. Drawing on insights from IFMA’s The Rise of the FM Analyst report, they explore why the FM analyst isn’t a job title, but a mindset grounded in curiosity, problem solving and cross-functional thinking. From fragmented data systems to the growing importance of storytelling in the C-suite, the conversation highlights what it takes to turn data into decisions that drive real business value. They also dive into: The six key traits shaping modern FM professionals Why data confidence is still a major gap across the industry How FM fits into the broader enterprise data ecosystem The role of AI as a “co-pilot” for analysis and decision-making What the next 5–10 years of FM could look like in a digital-first world This episode is sponsored by TMA Systems! Discover more at https://www.tmasystems.com/ifmapodcast Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:50 Six Traits Breakdown 06:29 Are Traits Happening 08:40 FM In Data Ecosystem 10:57 Tool Stack Reality 13:14 From Reports To Decisions 14:49 AI As Copilot 17:17 AI Confidence Concerns 19:37 Skills Training Pathways 22:21 FM In Five Years 24:01 Wrap Up And Outro Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org