As the commercial cleaning industry continues to evolve in response to shifting workplace dynamics, technological innovation, and growing sustainability demands, staying ahead of the curve is more important than ever. To illuminate what’s next, we asked members of BSCAI’s Marketing & Editorial Committee and Board of Directors to share their perspective on the emerging trends they believe will shape the future of building service contracting. From robotics, proof of service, and data analytics, their perspectives offer a valuable glimpse into the priorities and possibilities that lie ahead.
1. Robotics
Robotics is playing a transformative role in the commercial cleaning industry, especially as technology continues to evolve. Robotics offer solutions that address both labor challenges and the demand for consistent, high-quality service. Robotics can help reduce operational costs over time, improve safety by handling hazardous tasks, and support sustainability goals through optimized resource usage. As technology continues to advance, robotics will become an essential tool for companies looking to stay competitive and meet evolving client expectations in the cleaning sector.
Charles Keenum, senior vice president of the Budd Group, has already seen the impacts of robotics in the commercial cleaning field. “Autonomous vacuums and scrubbers are becoming common in large, open spaces. They don’t replace staff but handle repetitive work, letting employees focus on detail cleaning or filling in for absenteeism,” Keenum says. He mentions that robotics could assist during labor shortages, help provide consistency and quality control, and increase cost efficiency.
Peter Cain, president of customer experience at Marsden Services, agrees. Cain notes that robotics, AI, and sensors could be used to route staff where they are needed based on traffic flow in any given building. He also notes, however, that the use of robotics doesn’t come without additional work. “Robotics will significantly help with labor shortages,” he says, “but we will need to train our staff to be ‘robotic technicians’ rather than just ‘cleaners.’”
Patrick Comaskey, CEO of Direct Clean Solution, notes that the use of robotics and advancing technology will become a differentiating factor between cleaning companies. Comaskey believes the trend will increase revenue and cut overhead costs. “I can get a robotic window washing drone and no longer need to subcontract window cleaning,” he explains.
2. Proof of Service
Another trend that is becoming a necessity for modern commercial cleaning operations is proof of service, driven by the need for transparency, accountability, and client confidence. As building service contractors manage increasingly complex portfolios and service expectations, digital tools that verify when, where, and how cleaning tasks are completed offer a powerful way to build trust and streamline communication. Whether through time-stamped reports, sensor-based tracking, or mobile check-ins, proof of service helps ensure that contracted work is performed to standard — while also providing valuable data for quality assurance, compliance, and operational optimization.
“Clients increasingly expect real-time visibility into cleaning operations,” says Kristina Thayer, director of business development for the MSNW Group. “With heightened expectations for hygiene, especially post-COVID, customers want assurance that services are completed thoroughly and on time.”
Proof of service is being implemented in several ways, including mobile apps where cleaners log completed tasks, QR codes that let clients verify last-cleaned times, and GPS-based tracking of cleaning crews. MSNW Group provides proof of service for multiple service lines using QR codes and time-stamped photos. These tech-based proof of services help build trust with the client, ultimately helping companies secure longer contracts, Thayer explains.
Greg Buchner, president of CleanOffice, says he’s seeing customers request more transparency and accuracy when it comes to service completion. “Companies will need more sophisticated technology tools and employees capable of using them.”
This resonates with Blake Dozier, co-owner and director of business development for On Point Service Co. as well. “Customers want to see documentation of scope completion,” he says. Advancing software and the Internet of Things (IoT) are improving the ways companies can show proof of service. “We are having to raise the bar with our reporting and client communication.”
3. Data Analytics
Data is becoming a powerful driver of decision-making and customization in commercial cleaning, offering building service contractors new ways to elevate both internal operations and client satisfaction. For managers, real-time data from connected devices and digital platforms enables smarter scheduling, performance tracking, and resource allocation — helping teams stay agile and efficient. On the client side, data allows for tailored cleaning programs based on traffic patterns, usage trends, and specific facility needs, ensuring that services are both relevant and cost-effective.
Detailed dashboards that are updated hourly, often created through a business intelligence platform, help provide managers with more detailed information, shares Steve Schuchat, CEO of Clean All Services Inc. According to him, access to this information on a timely basis helps managers make better decisions.
Data can also be used to help customize cleaning plans to the needs of clients, notes Kristy Elmore, vice president of marketing and commercial operations at Harvard Maintenance.
“Customers want assurance that services are completed thoroughly and on time,” she says.
For her, the impact is increased trust, better compliance reporting, and help in securing long-term contracts.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that embracing robotics and demonstrating value through both data and measurable outcomes will be essential for BSCs aiming to stay competitive. Those who proactively adapt to these emerging trends will be better positioned to deliver consistent quality, build lasting client relationships, and thrive in an increasingly tech-driven industry.