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- 2026 AI & Digitalization in Facilities Management Report for Higher Education
2026 AI & Digitalization in Facilities Management Report for Higher Education
The tech, tactics and trends shaping today's operations in America’s universities
Download reportLearn 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.
Download report 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.
Key takeaways from the 2026 AI & Digitalization Report for Higher Education
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.
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.
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Deferred maintenance and outdated systems are creating real operational risk.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.
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.

















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