Innovation Without Illusions: How to Truly Optimize Cleaning Services?
During an expert panel organized in collaboration with the Polish Chamber of Commerce for Cleaning at Ptak Warsaw Expo, it quickly became clear that while the market today talks about rt foundations. Technology is important, but it only works when it is integrated into a well-structured organization, proven processes, and competent people. We heard from Magdalena Jabłońska-Pudlak, Head of the Ecolabel Certification Team at the Polish Center for Testing and Certification S.A., Karol Żelazowski, Business Development Manager at Klüh Facility Services, and Paweł Szybisz, President of the Board of the Polish Chamber of Commerce.
The experts emphasized that the industry needs, above all, better thinking, better education, and better communication-and only then equipment.
Key takeaways:
· "People are the key. Without committed and trained employees, no technology will be effective."
· "Technology is a support, not a goal. Advanced robots still require supervision-they are often more of an attraction than a cost-saver."
· "Process first, equipment second. Automation without standardization ends in chaos."
· "Education is the surest form of innovation. It is a lack of knowledge, not equipment, that most often causes problems."
· "The relationship with an employee is more powerful than any technology. Simple gestures of appreciation genuinely improve retention."
· "Innovation doesn't have to be high-tech. An instruction manual, a QR code, or a simple organizational change can be just as effective."
The conference on March 10 was complemented by an event on March 11, which reinforced the belief that the quality of services is determined primarily by good training, clear job descriptions, and constant communication with staff.
Quality in the cleaning industry does not stem from technology, but from the competence and awareness of employees. Experts-Jacek Szargan, Tomasz Łuczak, and Robert Rompalski-emphasized that procedures and equipment only work effectively when staff are properly onboarded and trained. There is still a lack of formal education in this industry, which is why investing in training, communication, and precise processes is crucial for quality, safety, and collaboration with the client. Only the combination of knowledge, technology, and consistent supervision allows for the development of a sustainable, professional level of service.
Key takeaways from the discussion:
· "Quality starts with people, not equipment-it is the employee who determines the final result."
· "Education and standards are a necessity, as the industry suffers from a lack of formal curricula."
· "Consistent quality requires procedures and documentation, especially in the context of safety and the risk of claims."
· "The client relationship is based on a clear scope of work to avoid 'free services' and misunderstandings."
· "Technology is a support, not a solution, unless it is accompanied by proper employee training."
When technology is just a tool-and people are the foundation
The conferences clearly demonstrated that true innovation in cleaning begins with people, processes, and education, and that technology only makes sense when accompanied by proper training, communication, and clearly defined responsibilities. The industry is taking a more mature view of its needs, formulating specific expectations of manufacturers, educators, and suppliers. Initiatives such as "The Voice of Cleaning Companies" amplify the voices of those who work closest to the client and best understand the real challenges. This is a sign of change: a sector that has long remained in the shadows is beginning to speak louder with one voice and is consciously shaping the direction of change-placing people at the center of quality.
In the cleaning industry, it is not machines, but human knowledge, development, and responsibility that are the true foundation of quality.
See the conference highlights
Nikodem Zygadło
Director of Analysis Department | Deputy Director of Development | Ptak Warsaw Expo
A trade fair enthusiast with nearly 30 years of experience in creating, organizing events and managing trade fair projects.