Pass the IFMA Facility Manager CFM Questions and answers with ExamsMirror

Project management follows the iron triangle principle—balancing cost, time, and quality. A project cannot maximize all three simultaneously without trade-offs.

The best approach is to work with the sponsor to adjust expectations realistically within feasible constraints.

Implementing the project as instructed (Option B) could result in failure due to unrealistic goals.

Lowering quality (Option C) without stakeholder agreement is unprofessional and risks dissatisfaction.

Cancelling the project outright (Option D) should be a last resort. Instead, negotiation and adjustment are preferred​.

A lease with a purchase option is commonly chosen when an organization lacks the initial capital for an outright property purchase. This arrangement allows the organization to secure the use of a facility while deferring the financial burden of full ownership until later. Such an approach provides flexibility, preserves cash flow, and allows time to assess whether the location meets long-term strategic needs. Facility managers must consider factors like lease terms, maintenance obligations, and future financial impact before opting for this strategy​.

A safe, clean, and pleasant environment is critical for employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention. Facility managers contribute by:

Ensuring workplace safety and ergonomic comfort.

Providing a well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Improving air quality, lighting, and noise control.

Why the other options are incorrect:

(A) Childcare and recreation areas are beneficial but may not be feasible for every company.

(B) Collaborative workspaces are useful but do not address core environmental concerns.

(D) New furniture and equipment enhance comfort but do not guarantee better retention​.

Effective communication (Option C) ensures that messages are understood, acted upon, and lead to the intended outcome.

Risk management involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that could result in liability. This process includes:

Implementing safety procedures and compliance measures.

Training employees on risk mitigation strategies.

Developing emergency response and contingency plans.

Why the other options are incorrect:

(B) Risk avoidance seeks to eliminate risk altogether but is not always feasible.

(C) Liability management is a subset of risk management but does not encompass the entire process.

(D) Limited liability analysis is a financial strategy, not a risk mitigation process​.

Depreciation (B) is the process of calculating how much an asset loses value over time due to wear, aging, or obsolescence.

Common depreciation methods include:

Straight-line depreciation

Declining balance depreciation

Why not other options?

(A) Payback period measures how long it takes to recover the initial investment, not asset value reduction.

(C) Diminishing return refers to economic output, not asset valuation.

(D) Life cycle cost considers total ownership costs, including maintenance and disposal.

The IFMA Risk Management competency states that effective mitigation starts with identifying risks and hazards​.

Option D (Correct): Risk assessment ensures hazards are identified and mitigated before escalation.

Option B (Predictive maintenance) is preventative, but not risk mitigation.

Mitigation focuses on eliminating risks before they impact operations​.

Work space analysis (A) is the most comprehensive method to determine future space requirements based on employee growth, space utilization, and workflow efficiency.

It includes occupancy metrics, space efficiency studies, and strategic planning for future needs.

Why not other options?

(B) Manager surveys provide input but are not a full analysis.

(C) Cost/benefit analysis evaluates financial feasibility, not space needs.

(D) Ergonomic studies focus on individual workstation design, not overall space planning.

The Best and Highest Use principle in real estate valuation requires passing four tests:

Physically Possible – The land or building must accommodate the intended use.

Legally Permissible – Must comply with zoning, environmental laws, and regulations.

Financially Feasible – Must generate enough income or benefits to justify the investment.

Maximally Productive – Must provide the highest return compared to other uses.

While strategic planning (A, C) and location (D) are important considerations, they do not meet all four criteria required for determining best and highest use​.

Special protected circuit outlets (Option C) are required in outdoor areas and near water sources to prevent electrical hazards.

Why Option C is Correct?

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are mandatory in wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces to prevent electrical shock.

National Electrical Code (NEC) regulations require GFCIs for safety in high-risk locations.

IFMA’s Operations & Maintenance Core Competency states that facility managers must ensure electrical safety compliance.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect?

Option A (Separate circuit breaker): Not required for special protected circuits; GFCIs can be installed on existing circuits.

Option B (Good idea for child safety): They are required in certain areas, not just a good practice.