2025 BIFMA Learning Series: Why Standards Matter
Why Standards Matter (accredited CEU)
What are your primary considerations when selecting furniture? This course provides knowledge to the A&D community, facility managers, building owners, end users, and manufacturers about BIFMA’s mission and work. The course explains Why Standards Matter to all who are involved in furniture procurement to ensure decisions are informed by safety, well-being, and sustainability.
Who Should Attend
A&D professionals, LEED and WELL Accredited Professionals, those connected with facility managers (satisfies IFMA CFM maintenance requirements), those connected with corporate real estate professionals (approved toward pursuit of CoreNet Global QPCR designation), and anyone influencing furniture selection.
What Will Be Covered
- You will learn the historical context that drove the need for industry-wide furniture performance.
- You will understand the impact of social, economic, and technological trends that effect the bottom line.
- You will understand how test procedures are designed to simulate safety and durability in use.
- You will understand how BIFMA supports the work of design and other professionals with their LEVEL and BIFMA Compliant programs.
Program Credits
- IDCEC– 1.0 HSW designation
- AIA– 1.0 LU/HSW
- GBCI– 1.0 General Education, WELL AP & LEED AP
Speaker
Andrew Kotman, Membership Services Director
Andrew Kotman has spent 14 years in the office furniture industry, holding positions in sales and product management at manufacturer and dealer levels. These roles have allowed Andrew to lead in every stage of the process – from product launch to installation.
Andrew’s experiences have provided him with a unique perspective of industry challenges and strategies. He understands the importance of meeting organizational objectives, but also brings first-hand awareness of customer goals and motivations.
Andrew holds a masters of business administration from Grand Valley State University and a bachelor’s in business administration from Calvin College.