Learn how higher education leaders approach technology, energy, cybersecurity, and AI

In collaboration with an independent market research firm, Johnson Controls conducted an online survey of U.S. business leaders and facility managers in facilities, finance, HR, IT and real estate. This version of the 2026 AI & Digitalization in Facilities Management Report explores the unique operational challenges and opportunities that leaders in higher education experience today.

Download the report to uncover what today’s universities and colleges are doing to make their buildings and facilities work smarter for people and the planet.
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Learn from today’s healthcare leaders and facility managers about their technology, energy performance, cybersecurity and AI

Key takeaways from the 2026 AI & Digitalization Report for Higher Education

Building
The pressure to do more with less is intensifying

Higher education facilities leaders are navigating a perfect storm of rising energy costs, strapped budgets and aging infrastructure. See how they’re using technology to respond.

A hexagon
AI adoption is growing... Slowly

AI is already reshaping facilities management in higher education, but adoption still lags other industries. Learn where forward-thinking institutions are focusing their investments to stay competitive.

Infra
Aging infrastructure is the #1 risk

Deferred maintenance and outdated systems are creating real operational risk. See how teams are shifting strategies to improve reliability and reduce downtime.

Papers
Limited visibility leads to low data confidence

Without a workplace management solution, only 33% of higher ed leaders are very confident in their workplace data, which is often collected manually. Explore how they compare to respondents in other industries.

Download the 2026 AI & Digitalization in Facilities Management Report for Higher Education