Leading facilities management company, Arcus FM, collaborates with Aston University to  apply machine learning, game theory and optimisation techniques.

The project is a first for Arcus FM and will see the award-winning organisation recruit a PhD graduate who specialises in data analytics and computer science, with the aim of bringing together industry and academic experts to drive efficiencies within the growing organisation. More details of the job are here. In the words of the project’s Knowledge Transfer Adviser, Jose Freedman: “This Knowledge Transfer Partnership applies cutting edge research in mathematics and artificial intelligence to enable Arcus FM to deliver excellent services to its clients, increasing productivity and supporting growth.”

Arcus FM was created on the principle of delivering a total facilities management (FM) solution and has evolved from being a pure managing agent to self-delivering the majority of FM services for its nationwide clients. Discussing the KTP, David Lane, Head of Technology and Innovation at Arcus, explains: “This role is an exciting opportunity for someone to take on a strategic project with the support of mentors from Arcus FM, Aston University and KTN [a delivery partner of the KTP programme for Innovate UK]. The project will apply machine learning, game theory and optimisation techniques to enhance Arcus’ utilisation of resources, enabling our business to deliver a sector-leading level of service and efficiency for our clients.

“We’re very excited about what this project will bring to Arcus and also the FM industry as a whole. It really has the potential to be game-changing for the sector.”

Speaking about the project, Martin May, Aston University’s KTP Manager, Business Engagement, said: “The KTP project is an excellent applied research opportunity in Computer Science and Mathematics that will lead to an in-depth understanding of the requirements of real-world problems. The application of optimisation and evolutionary algorithms to a complex commercial issue will stimulate future research in artificial intelligence.”

Back to David Lane: “We knew working in partnership with a university would give us the academic expertise and innovation we needed. Aston’s charter has specialist expertise in both Mathematics and Computer Science and novel and recent research will be crucial in pushing the boundaries on this project.”

Pictured above:

Sitting on front row (Left to Right)

Dr Felipe Campelo-Franca-Pinto, Dr Aniko Ekart, Dr Randa Herzallah – Aston University

Standing at Rear

Mr Alan Wright, Mr Stephen Willis, Mr David Lane – Arcus FM Ltd; Ms Zaheda Teladia, Mr Martin May – Aston University