In terms of practical challenges, the session addressed budget allocation for equipment repairs. An illustrative example provided by Raj Singh, General Manager, Holiday Inn, Lucknow Airport demonstrated how mid-year expenses, such as purchasing new vacuum cleaners, are managed as operational expenses (OPEX) or extraordinary ones (XO). Aiming to achieve the objective of the session, Raj Singh said, “Housekeeping as perceived earlier is no more a Back-Office department but a Core Operation contributing to the Guest Experience being from a Good to a Great!”
Overall, the event was a comprehensive platform for exchanging ideas, discussing innovations, and exploring strategies to elevate standards in hospitality and healthcare. The session not only highlighted current trends but also set the stage for future advancements in the industry.
Balancing Act II – Juggling between work and personal life
The session that followed was titled ‘The Balancing Act’ and had two parts. Heralded by dim lights and a music track from The Conspiracy Theory, Balancing Act l was a unique session conducted in a Moot Court Format. Here’s what one of the speakers/actors Gayan Peiris, Executive Housekeeper – Cinnamon Grand Colombo had to say about it… “Participating in the moot court on Outsourcing v/s In-House Operations was an intriguing and educational experience. I had the opportunity to argue in favour of the permanent workforce as the junior petitioner, which is against outsourcing, exploring the pros and cons that relate to the legal, economic, and ethical dimensions of this global practice. Engaging in this dramatic role allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of outsourcing, which is in favour of the contract workforce, including its benefits, such as cost reduction and increased efficiency, as well as the challenges it poses, like job displacement and quality control concerns.
“The moot court session was not only an excellent learning opportunity for me, but also a highly engaging event for the audience. The interactive format, where participants could witness the clash of arguments and the thoughtful questioning by the judge, kept the audience captivated throughout. It was gratifying to see how the debate sparked lively discussions and reflections among attendees, highlighting the relevance of the topic in today’s globalized economy.
“Overall, the experience was invaluable, providing me with the chance to hone my advocacy skills, deepen my subject knowledge, and engage with a topic of great contemporary significance. I am grateful for the opportunity to Clean India Journal and the Asian Housekeepers’ Association.”
The concluding verdict, by Judge Ram Chena at the Moot Court session, was “When deciding between an internal and outsourced housekeeping department, there isn’t a universal solution. Organizations need to carefully consider their options, considering factors like budget, control preferences, and particular cleaning requirements.
“For some organizations with limited resources and basic cleaning needs and high occupancy fluctuations, outsourcing may provide the most cost- effective solution. However, those with specific cleaning requirements, stable occupancies or a strong focus on control might discover that an internal team better suits their goals. The decision ultimately depends on understanding the circumstances and priorities of your organization.”
Work-life integration is crucial in housekeeping across various sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, and corporate environments. In hospitality, where employees often work long hours to maintain high standards of cleanliness and guest satisfaction, a balanced approach helps prevent burnout and ensures consistent, quality service. In healthcare, housekeepers play a vital role in maintaining a sterile and safe environment, and a healthy work-life balance is essential for their well-being and effectiveness, which directly impacts patient safety and care. In corporate settings, where housekeeping often involves maintaining office environments, a balanced work-life approach helps improve job satisfaction, reduce turnover, and enhance productivity.
