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Mixed-Use Entertainment District Cleaning and Facility Services

Supporting the Future of Sports Venues

Mixed-use entertainment districts are reshaping how professional sports venues operate. Across the country, teams are developing large-scale destinations that combine stadiums with retail, dining, offices, hotels, and public gathering spaces. These mixed-use sports complexes are designed to attract visitors year-round, creating vibrant environments that require advanced cleaning and facility management strategies.

According to Sports Business Journal, The Battery Atlanta is leading the explosion of mixed-use developments built around sports venues and serving as a model for similar projects emerging across the country. By integrating Truist Park with restaurants, shops, and commercial spaces, the Braves created a destination that remains active well beyond game day.

Operating a mixed-use entertainment district presents unique challenges for facility services. High foot traffic, overlapping event schedules, and diverse tenant needs demand consistent cleaning, maintenance, and operational coordination. Stadium guests, office tenants, retail customers, and restaurant visitors all share the same environment. Delivering reliable mixed-use facility services requires a partner experienced in managing complex, high-visibility properties.

Service Management Systems provides cleaning and facility services for The Battery Atlanta and its surrounding properties, supporting one of the nation’s most recognized mixed-use entertainment districts. SMS also brings more than 30 years of experience delivering cleaning and facility services in retail environments. That deep retail background translates directly to mixed-use districts, where storefront presentation, customer experience, and high-traffic maintenance are critical to success. Our teams deliver scalable janitorial and operational support across multiple property types within the complex, adjusting staffing and service levels in real time to match event schedules and daily activity.

At The Battery Atlanta, SMS delivers a full range of cleaning and facility services tailored to high-traffic, mixed-use entertainment environments. Our services include:

• Trash and recycling removal to keep public spaces clear and event-ready, even during peak attendance.
• Parking garage cleaning and maintenance, including sweeping and power washing multi-level facilities to create a safe and welcoming first impression.
• Pressure washing of sidewalks, plazas, and high-traffic common areas to maintain a clean, professional appearance.
• Continuous monitoring and cleaning of busy walkways and gathering spaces to address high-touch surfaces throughout the day.
• Exterior debris and landscaping clean-up to preserve curb appeal and prevent potential hazards.
• Restroom cleaning and stocking with a focus on hygiene and guest readiness.
• Event support, including setup assistance and post-event cleaning to ensure smooth operations for tenants and visitors.

In addition to our work at The Battery Atlanta, SMS provides facility services nationwide, supported by a strong divisional structure and a centralized Customer Support Center that coordinates operations across markets. This national infrastructure allows us to deliver consistent service standards, rapid responsiveness, and scalable resources wherever our clients operate. By combining local operational teams with centralized support, SMS ensures every property receives the attention and expertise needed to best serve customers and partners.

Technology plays a central role in how SMS manages mixed-use facilities. Our SMART System is a proprietary quality assurance platform that gives operations teams real-time visibility into performance. The system identifies problem areas, tracks task completion and employee activity, and generates reporting that supports accountability and continuous improvement. For large entertainment districts, this level of transparency helps ensure consistent service across expansive, high-traffic environments.

As more cities invest in mixed-use sports and entertainment developments, owners and operators need facility partners with proven experience and advanced operational tools. These districts combine the demands of stadium cleaning, retail facility services, hospitality support, and commercial property maintenance into one integrated ecosystem.

SMS brings hands-on expertise from servicing a leading mixed-use entertainment complex, supported by technology-driven oversight through the SMART System. When the industry looks to The Battery Atlanta as a blueprint for the future of sports and entertainment districts, SMS is already delivering the cleaning and facility services that keep that model running every day.

If you’re looking for a proven partner to support cleaning and facility services for your mixed-use entertainment complex, contact Service Management Systems to learn how our experience and technology can help keep your property operating at its best.

Class A Office Building Cleaning and Facility Services

Supporting the Modern Workplace

Class A office buildings set the standard for today’s professional environments. These properties are designed to reflect a company’s brand, attract top talent, and create a productive workplace for employees and tenants. Maintaining that standard requires professional office cleaning and facility services that support both appearance and performance.

Modern Class A office spaces feature premium finishes, high-traffic common areas, collaborative workspaces, and shared amenities that demand consistent attention. From lobbies and conference rooms to restrooms and break areas, every part of the building contributes to the overall tenant experience. Reliable janitorial services and proactive facility support help preserve property value while creating a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.

Service Management Systems provides cleaning and facility services for leading Class A office environments, including corporate properties such as CBRE, Papa Johns, ThyssenKrupp, and Truist office buildings. Our teams understand the operational needs of high-performance workplaces and tailor every service program to each client’s specific needs. We work closely with property managers and stakeholders to design customized cleaning plans tailored to building layouts, occupancy patterns, and tenant expectations. This tailored approach allows us to deliver visible, consistent results that support both daily operations and long-term asset care.

At Class A office properties, SMS delivers a comprehensive range of cleaning and facility services designed to support both daily operations and long-term building standards. Our services include:

• Common Area Cleaning & Day Porter Services: Maintaining lobbies, corridors, elevator landings, and shared spaces throughout the day, including vacuuming, dusting, trash removal, and continuous attention to high-touch surfaces.
• Trash and Recycling Removal: Collecting and properly disposing of waste and recyclables from common areas and tenant spaces to maintain cleanliness and operational efficiency.
• Restroom Cleaning and Stocking: Providing thorough restroom cleaning, sanitation, restocking, and ongoing upkeep to ensure hygiene, readiness, and a positive tenant experience.
• Elevator and Vertical Transport Cleaning: Servicing elevator landings and interior cabs to maintain a clean, professional appearance in high-use areas.
• Tenant Space Cleaning: Delivering comprehensive cleaning within office suites, including vacuuming, dusting, sweeping, waste removal, and general workspace upkeep.
• Carpet Care and Floor Maintenance: Performing deep carpet cleaning, extractions, and detailed floor care to preserve the appearance and longevity of flooring throughout the property.
• Break Room and Kitchen Cleaning: Cleaning and sanitizing shared kitchen and break areas, including surface cleaning, waste removal, and restocking support where needed.
• Fitness Center and Locker Room Cleaning: Maintaining on-site gyms and locker rooms through detailed cleaning of equipment, high-touch surfaces, and common areas, including towel service support where applicable.
• High Dusting and Detail Cleaning: Addressing hard-to-reach surfaces and performing detailed cleaning tasks to maintain overall building cleanliness and presentation.

In addition to supporting leading Class A office properties, SMS provides facility services nationwide, backed by a strong divisional structure and a centralized Customer Support Center that coordinates operations across markets. This national infrastructure allows us to deliver consistent service standards, rapid responsiveness, and scalable resources wherever our clients operate. By combining local operational teams with centralized support, SMS ensures every office property receives the attention and expertise needed to best serve tenants and stakeholders.

Effective office facility management requires flexibility and precision. Cleaning programs must work around business schedules, minimizing disruption while maintaining professional standards. SMS uses structured cleaning protocols and scalable staffing models to support daytime and after-hours service. Because each property operates differently, we adjust staffing levels, schedules, and service scope to align with client priorities and operational demands. This flexibility allows property managers and tenants to maintain a polished environment without interrupting productivity.

Technology plays a central role in how SMS supports Class A office facilities. Our SMART System is a proprietary quality assurance platform that provides real-time visibility into performance and is fully transparent to facility management teams. Clients have complete access to everything SMART has to offer, including performance dashboards, task tracking, and reporting tools, and they retain ownership of their data. The system helps identify problem areas, track employee activity and task completion, and generate reporting that supports accountability and continuous improvement. For multi-tenant office buildings, this transparency helps ensure consistent service quality across shared spaces.

As organizations continue to invest in high-quality workplaces, the demand for professional office cleaning and facility services continues to grow. Clean, well-managed environments contribute to employee well-being, tenant satisfaction, and the property’s overall reputation. Partnering with an experienced facility services provider that delivers customized solutions helps ensure that Class A office buildings consistently meet these expectations.

If you’re seeking a trusted partner for cleaning and facility services in your Class A office building, contact Service Management Systems to learn how our experience and technology can support your workplace.

The SMART System

Real-Time Accountability and Transparent Operations

At Service Management Systems, we believe excellent service should always be visible. The SMART System is our proprietary quality assurance platform that gives every partner a clear view of how their facility is performing. It connects inspections, work orders, and communication in one system, so quality can be tracked, measured, and improved in real time.

The SMART System was created to bring consistency to large and complex operations. Every task and inspection is time-stamped, documented, and assigned to a team member. Using built-in tracking, the system also verifies the exact location where each inspection or task is performed. Managers and supervisors can confirm that work is completed in the right areas at the right times, adding an extra layer of accuracy and accountability.

This visibility enables us to stay proactive rather than reactive. When data reveals a trend or a service gap, managers can adjust staffing, scheduling, or training before the issue affects operations. Each decision is guided by facts rather than assumptions.

For our partners, the SMART System provides a level of transparency that builds confidence. Clients have access to reports and dashboards that show current performance and historical data. They know exactly what is being done and when, with clear records to verify results.

Communication is also faster and more direct. Service updates, inspection findings, and maintenance requests are processed instantly, ensuring that the right personnel respond without delay. That clarity helps reduce downtime and keeps facilities running smoothly.

The SMART System supports all industries we serve, including airports, retail centers, K-12 and universities, and entertainment venues. Each site can be customized with specific task lists and reporting formats, while the overall framework ensures accountability remains consistent everywhere we operate.

A few of the core benefits include:

• Verified performance with time and geo-location data
• Faster communication between teams and partners
• Consistent service quality across multiple sites
• Data that drives ongoing improvement

The SMART System is more than technology. It represents the way SMS works: open, efficient, and accountable. It enables our teams to perform with precision, our customers to monitor results with confidence, and our company to continually improve every day.

Holiday Crowds, Clean Spaces

How SMS Supports High-Traffic Facilities During the Busiest Season of the Year

The holiday season brings a noticeable shift across airports and shopping centers as travelers take to the skies and shoppers fill retail spaces. As the season begins in November and builds through December, foot traffic increases, lines grow longer, and facilities must remain clean, safe, and fully operational from opening to closing. During the busiest weeks of the year, reliable cleaning and disinfecting become even more critical, especially as cold and flu season overlaps with peak holiday activity.

High-Traffic Environments at Their Peak

Airports experience some of the highest seasonal demand of any facility type. Passenger volume increases, security areas move continuously, restrooms stay in constant use, and high-touch surfaces are handled by thousands of people each day. Shopping centers see a similar surge as families, tourists, and last-minute shoppers move steadily through entrances, corridors, food courts, and restrooms. These environments require consistent attention, rapid response, and proactive surface care to support both safety and appearance during the height of the season.

To match this increased demand, standard SMS procedures focus on adjusting schedules and coverage to align with peak traffic periods. Some properties utilize increased traffic hours during the holidays, while others bank hours throughout the year to support heavier seasonal demand based on contractual structure. This flexible approach enables SMS teams to ensure facilities receive comprehensive coverage during peak times without disrupting long-term staffing plans. Crews remain visible and responsive, addressing spills, trash overflow, and high-use zones as crowds fluctuate throughout the day.

Cleaning for Cold and Flu Season

Cold and flu season adds another critical layer to holiday operations. With more people moving through public spaces during the winter months, proper disinfecting of high-touch areas becomes even more essential. Door handles, railings, restroom fixtures, seating areas, and shared surfaces require frequent cleaning and disinfecting to help reduce the spread of illness. Floor care also plays a key role during this time of year, especially in weather-impacted regions where moisture, snow, and tracked-in debris can quickly create safety concerns.

Technology That Supports Daily Execution

Technology supports this elevated level of visibility and response. Our proprietary quality assurance program, SMART System, enables SMS teams to monitor task completion through geo-tracking, confirm service in real-time, and maintain consistent quality assurance across high-traffic environments. This level of oversight helps teams stay ahead of changing conditions and gives facility partners confidence that cleaning and disinfecting efforts are being verified throughout the day.

School Breaks Create a Different Kind of Demand

While airports and shopping centers see increased crowds during the holidays, schools experience the opposite. As students leave for winter break, SMS teams shift into deep cleaning and project-focused work across classrooms, offices, restrooms, gyms, hallways, libraries, and cafeterias.

Standard break procedures focus on thorough surface sanitizing, floor care, glass cleaning, restroom deep cleaning, and detailed attention to high- and low-touch areas throughout the building. In addition to routine break cleaning, teams also identify site-specific needs, such as carpet staining and floor restoration, and other project work. They then build structured plans with managers and supervisors to ensure everything is ready before students return.

Ready for Whatever the Season Brings

The holiday season brings higher expectations along with higher traffic. Travelers and shoppers notice when spaces feel clean, organized, and well-maintained, especially during the most hectic weeks of the year. A consistently maintained environment supports safer movement, stronger guest impressions, and smoother daily operations when pressure is at its highest.

Whether a facility is welcoming increased public traffic or taking advantage of seasonal downtime for deep cleaning, SMS remains active. While schools may be on break, airports remain busy, shopping centers remain crowded, and SMS teams remain at work across all environments. Through planning, flexible coverage, technology, and consistent execution, SMS helps facilities move through the holiday season prepared, supported, and ready for what comes next.

Bill Coakley’s Vision: The Foundation of Service Management Systems

When Bill Coakley founded Service Management Systems in 1988, he wasn’t trying to build a typical service company.

He wanted to create a place where people worked with purpose, took pride in their results, and supported one another along the way. That idea became the foundation of a company that continues to grow more than three decades later.

The Beginning of Service Management Systems

The first SMS office sat on Murfreesboro Road in Nashville, Tennessee. It was just two rooms, one for Bill and one for his assistant, Angie Dean. Angie had been Bill’s assistant at his previous company, and when he decided to start his own business, she left to continue working alongside him.

“When he told me he was starting his own company, I didn’t hesitate,” Angie said. “He asked me to join him, and I quit my job the next day.”

For the first six months, Bill paid Angie out of his own pocket while the company waited to take on new business. When the time came, they launched with three accounts located in Pennsylvania, California, and Tennessee. It was a small start, but Bill believed that steady growth built stronger roots.

Early employees often traveled for weeks at a time, managing cleaning and maintenance operations at client sites around the country. “Back then you didn’t leave on Monday and come home on Friday,” Angie said. “You stayed until the job was done.” That work ethic helped shape the company’s culture of reliability and teamwork. Everyone pitched in, and everyone understood that quality mattered more than speed.

A Company Built on People and Integrity

From the beginning, Service Management Systems felt different from other service companies. Bill’s focus was never on growth for its own sake. He built relationships with clients and employees through honesty, trust, and follow-through.

Bill led by example. One vendor recalled arriving at a mall late one night to deliver supplies and finding the company’s owner unloading buckets of floor cleaner. Only later did he realize the man beside him was Bill Coakley.

As Angie recalled, “If you didn’t know Bill and you were in a room filled with people, you would never guess he was the founder and president of a company that generated hundreds of millions a year. He was the first to roll up his sleeves and get to work. That’s the philosophy he built into his company.”

That type of hands-on leadership defined SMS. Bill expected high standards, but he also inspired loyalty through fairness and respect. As the company grew, that attitude evolved into what employees today know as the Whatever It Takes culture, a commitment to doing the job right, supporting teammates, and exceeding expectations.

“He did so many things behind the scenes that nobody knew about,” Angie said. “He didn’t want credit. He just wanted to help.”

That sense of humility and service became the heart of SMS. “We called it our work family, and we meant it,” she added.

Adapting and Expanding

Through the 1990s, SMS continued to grow as new clients came on board and existing partnerships deepened. Bill’s ability to listen to customers and his willingness to adapt led to new services and stronger relationships. If a client needed something beyond cleaning, SMS found a way to deliver.

That adaptability helped SMS move into new industries, including healthcare. Hospitals and medical centers needed partners who could bring reliability, expertise, and compassion to their environments. SMS applied its proven systems and people-centered approach to create programs that supported patient safety and infection prevention.

Over time, Service Management Systems became known for its consistent results and dependable partnerships. Each new account reflected the same foundation Bill had set in motion in that small Nashville office: build relationships, deliver quality, and support the people who make it possible.

Carrying the Legacy Forward

Bill Coakley passed away in 2004, but his influence continues to guide Service Management Systems today. The leaders who worked beside him, and the many who came after, still measure success by the strength of their teams and the relationships they build.

Managers mentor their people. Longtime employees train new ones. The same values that defined the company’s earliest years still drive its future. Reflecting on Bill’s leadership, Angie said, “He made you believe you could do more than you thought you were capable of.”

Her own career is proof of that. She began as Bill’s assistant and eventually became a director, continuing the leadership style that shaped her career. “Bill and the leaders who followed gave us those opportunities,” she said. “That’s what makes it special.”

Angie also reflected on the lasting impact of his work: “Bill accomplished more in 48 years than most people could in ten lifetimes.” His leadership didn’t just build a company; it established a culture of service, accountability, and care that continues to shape SMS today.

A Lasting Commitment

From the first floors cleaned in 1988 to the hospital corridors, airport terminals, and retail centers served today, Service Management Systems has remained true to its purpose: to provide clean, safe, and welcoming environments for every person who walks through the door.

Bill Coakley’s legacy is visible every day in the company’s people and their work. The Whatever It Takes spirit he inspired continues to define how SMS serves its partners and supports its employees.

That commitment remains at the heart of who Service Management Systems is today.

5 Reasons Airports Should Outsource Their Janitorial and Maintenance Services

Airports never stop moving, and neither do the people who work in them.

From the first travelers lining up for early morning flights to the last passengers picking up their bags late at night, activity is constant. Behind the scenes, a tremendous amount of effort goes into keeping terminals clean, safe, and welcoming.

For many airports, outsourcing janitorial and maintenance services is the most efficient way to maintain high standards. Partnering with a trusted provider like SMS ensures your facility benefits from trained staff, proven systems, and reliable support while freeing your team to focus on broader operations.

Here are five reasons SMS is the right choice for your airport.

1. We’re Industry Experts

Janitorial and maintenance is not a side service for us, it is our specialty. For more than three decades, SMS has focused exclusively on large public-facing facilities, including airports, hospitals, arenas, shopping centers, schools, and more. Our training, processes, equipment, and people are designed with the demands of high-traffic environments in mind.

Good people are our most important asset. We hire individuals who are hard-working, conscientious, and personable, then give them the training and tools to succeed. From day one, new hires learn that cleaning for health and safety requires specific methods to reduce germs, prevent slips and falls, and protect everyone who uses your airport.

Training does not stop at onboarding. Employees receive continuous instruction to stay current with evolving standards and best practices. Our investment in modern, environmentally friendly equipment and supplies ensures every task is done efficiently and effectively.

Supporting our front-line staff is a team of subject matter experts and executives with decades of combined experience. Their knowledge covers HR, quality assurance, safety training, compliance, and operations. This depth allows us to respond quickly to challenges without airports needing to divert their own teams or hire outside consultants.

Safety is built into every process. Our programs focus on preventing accidents, reducing liability, and ensuring compliance with all OSHA standards. From using the right equipment to following proven cleaning techniques, our teams work with safety in mind at every step. By reducing hazards and maintaining high standards, we help create a cleaner, healthier, and safer environment for both passengers and employees.

2. Technology that Works for You

Our proprietary SMART System is one of the most advanced tools available in facility services. This in-house quality assurance platform provides real time visibility into the work being done across your airport.

Every SMS employee carries a work-issued device running the SMART application. Tasks are logged as they are completed, capturing who performed the work, when it was done, and where it took place. This creates a reliable service record that both SMS and airport management can access at any time.

Geo-tracking is a key feature. A live map divided into zones shows exactly where work is happening and how often each area is serviced. This makes it easy to identify high-traffic spots and ensure staff are deployed where they are needed most.

SMART System also generates detailed reports that can be tailored to your priorities. Whether you need daily updates on restrooms, weekly inspection results, or quarterly reviews, the data is available on demand. Dashboards provide instant access to trends and metrics that help improve decision-making.

Travelers can even provide feedback directly through QR codes posted in restrooms and other high-use areas. Their input creates work tickets that are tracked until resolution, with response times measured for accountability.

No other provider offers a system as comprehensive, and because it is built in-house, SMART System continues to evolve with the needs of our customers.

3. Service with the 5 E’s of Engagement

Airports are filled with people who may be rushed, tired, or stressed. Small interactions can make a big difference in their experience. That is why SMS trains employees in the 5 E’s of Engagement: Eye Contact, Ear-to-Ear Smile, Enthusiastic Greeting, Engage, and Educate.

These steps are simple but powerful. A smile or a friendly greeting can ease tension. Taking a few seconds to engage with a traveler shows they are noticed. Educating passengers by pointing them toward the right gate or explaining how to find a shuttle creates positive moments they will remember long after their flight.

The 5 E’s are part of our culture. They are reinforced in training, modeled by supervisors, and supported by leadership as an everyday expectation. For airports, this means the people responsible for keeping facilities clean also play a role in creating a welcoming environment for travelers.

4. Support Built into Your Services

With SMS, you get more than a front-line team. Our service model includes layers of support that ensure consistency, accountability, and rapid response.

On site, your airport is served by dedicated supervisors and managers who oversee daily operations. They are backed by a divisional leadership team that provides additional oversight and coaching. Beyond that, our Nashville headquarters provides centralized expertise in HR, payroll, IT, legal, compliance, and more.

This structure means airports benefit from the resources of a large organization without needing to stretch internal staff or hire additional third parties. Our corporate Customer Support Center includes specialists in risk management, finance, marketing, and technology, ensuring every part of your program is covered.

Smaller providers may deliver staff, but they cannot match this depth of support. With SMS, it is part of the package from the start.

5. Whatever It Takes

SMS was founded on the philosophy of doing “Whatever It Takes” to serve our customers. For airports, this means handing off the responsibility of janitorial and maintenance so leaders can focus on the complexities of running an airport.

We handle staffing, training, supervision, scheduling, equipment, and supplies. Our employees and managers take care of the daily details so your team can concentrate on passenger flow, security, and operations.

Doing “Whatever It Takes” also means stepping up when challenges arise. Our people are committed to solving problems quickly, adapting to new demands, and going beyond expectations. Backed by values of honesty, integrity, hard work, and appreciation, we build long-term partnerships grounded in trust.

When you work with SMS, you gain more than a vendor. You gain a partner that takes ownership of your janitorial and maintenance program, freeing you to focus on delivering a safe, efficient, and positive airport experience.

Back-to-School Ready

How SMS Prepares Schools for Day One

The first day of school sets the tone for the entire year. While teachers prepare lessons and students gather supplies, SMS teams are behind the scenes making sure every classroom, hallway, and common area is ready to welcome them back.

More Than Daily Cleaning

During the school year, custodial teams focus on maintaining a clean, safe environment day to day. But as Division Manager Bruce Hoffmaster explains, back-to-school is different:

“By the time schools are ready to begin a new year, our teams have completed all summer projects and deep cleaning and spent the last week leading up to school day #1 going through the schools spot checking and getting back into their daily routines of cleaning.”

From dusting classrooms and disinfecting surfaces to vacuuming carpets and scrubbing hard floors, the focus is on creating a fresh, welcoming space. Teachers often arrive early to set up their rooms, and SMS crews are there to lend a hand. “Our teams also assist with moving items around, relocating furniture from room to room as needed, and removing items requested,” Hoffmaster notes.

Coordinating Every Detail

Back-to-school prep is about coordination as much as it is about cleanliness. “Normal day-to-day cleaning is maintaining the schools throughout the year, and ensuring that each classroom is student-ready,” Hoffmaster explains. “During back-to-school prep, we’re focused on detailed projects such as stripping and waxing of schools, carpet extraction, high dusting, and more.”

If a task falls outside SMS’s direct scope, the team makes sure it’s still handled. “If we are not able to perform a task within maintenance, then we are coordinating the project,” says Hoffmaster. “With SMS partnering with Perfection Group, we offer a ‘one stop shop’ for all facility needs, including custodial, maintenance, HVAC, landscaping, development planning, etc.”

Supporting Schools Beyond the Classroom

The school season is about more than classrooms — it’s about community. SMS teams help prepare for events, support school programs, and assist with logistics. “Many times our team assists with event coverage, preparations, and even directing traffic for graduation each year,” Hoffmaster shares.

When emergencies strike, SMS is available, too. Hoffmaster recalls one critical moment:

“Last year, we worked with the health department during a sewage line issue that flooded a section of the school and stayed in contact with them throughout the night as teams worked all through the evening to disinfect and prepare the school for normal operations to prevent further learning delays.”

A “Whatever It Takes” Mindset

One of the most essential parts of back-to-school prep is teamwork. Hoffmaster describes a recent challenge at the district’s largest school:

“We had several employees that came from other schools within the district to assist the team for weeks to ensure that we could be ready for the start of school. Our teams go above and beyond to work together to ensure that we complete assignments and all detailed cleaning at each school and other buildings before teachers and all arrive.”

Ready for Day One

Back-to-school season is a time of excitement and fresh starts. “It is crucial for us to work around those within the buildings as we fully detail and sanitize the schools to ensure they are day one ready,” Hoffmaster says.

At SMS, that’s the standard — doing whatever it takes to ensure schools open their doors confidently, cleanly, and ready for learning.

Hiring for Heart: Building Strong Teams at SMS

How SMS Finds the Right Cultural Fit–One Hire at a Time

At Service Management Systems (SMS), great service starts with the right people. But finding the right person isn’t just about skills or experience. It’s about cultural fit. Every facility we service has its own rhythm, personality, and community. So, how do we tailor our hiring processto match each environment?

It starts with intentionality.

The Hiring Process: More Than Just a Resume

Our hiring process is thorough. Most candidates find us through platforms like Indeed, but from there, they’re guided through a structured internal application process via ADP. For most roles, our next steps include in-person or virtual interviews, job offers, and drug screening. Once cleared, candidates are paired with a manager, supervisor, or seasoned team member for hands-on training during their first week. That one-on-one onboarding time isn’t just about learning duties — it’s about ensuring the new hire meshes with the team dynamic and client culture.

Screening for Integrity and Growth

When SMS evaluates potential hires, we look well beyond the resume. We consider stability in employment history, but more importantly, we assess punctuality, communication, professionalism, and whether the person wants to grow with us. The number one trait we seek? Integrity. It’s one of our core values. We look for it in every candidate we screen.

Over time, we’ve learned that a well-presented, driven, and communicative person can perform just as well as someone with a perfect resume. It’s about the full picture.

Culture Match Begins with Understanding the Community

Every facility and market we serve is different, and our recruiting strategy reflects that. We analyze each community’s economic makeup, public transportation options, and where potential employees live relative to the site. This local insight helps us determine how realistic it is for someone to commute, thrive, and stay.

This approach is especially important when facilities offer wages below the market average — we can’t expect success without understanding where the right labor pool lives and how to reach them.

Doing “Whatever it Takes!”

The SMS mindset of “Whatever it Takes!” is more than a motto — it drives how we hire. We don’t rely solely on job boards. We get creative. We tap into employee referrals, develop relationships with local employment offices, experiment with Facebook Marketplace, and offer referral bonuses and longevity pay incentives. Staffing today takes hustle, and we bring that same energy to recruiting as we do to serving our clients.

Hiring with Heart

One of the most rewarding parts of hiring at SMS is seeing someone start at an entry-level position and rise through the ranks. This isn’t just a job — it’s a launchpad. We’re proud to offer a career path where hard work and dedication matter more than degrees or certifications.

We’ve seen time and time again that when someone is given the proper support and environment, they can thrive beyond expectations. That’s why we don’t just hire for roles. We hire with the belief that people can grow. From day one, we encourage ambition and offer real opportunities for advancement. Whether someone is new to the workforce or restarting their journey, we’re committed to helping them build a future. Watching team members take ownership of their work, gain confidence, and eventually lead others is one of our most rewarding aspects. It’s proof that investing in people always pays off.

A Hiring Philosophy Rooted in People

What makes SMS different is our emphasis on the person, not just the resume. We seek individuals who reflect our values and can bring that spirit to each facility we serve. Whether it’s a busy shopping center, a complex medical facility, or a historic venue, we understand that culture is everything, and the people we hire define it.

At the end of the day, we’re not just filling positions. We’re building teams that care, and that starts with hiring people who do, too.

From Daily Detail to All-Star Scale: SMS in Action at The Battery

Keeping The Battery Atlanta Clean, Ready, and Welcoming — No Matter the Event

The Battery Atlanta isn’t just a destination, it’s a dynamic hub of entertainment, culture, and community. With restaurants, shops, outdoor spaces, and year-round events, it draws thousands of visitors every week. Behind the scenes, Service Management Systems (SMS) plays a vital role in keeping the property clean, safe, and ready for whatever the day brings — whether that’s a family outing, a sold-out concert, or this year’s biggest event yet: the All-Star Game.

As the excitement builds for All-Star Weekend, the SMS team is working diligently to ensure that The Battery is at its shining best. From planning staff coverage to inventorying equipment and fine-tuning logistics, our focus is on creating a welcoming environment that reflects the energy and pride of this world-class space.

A Unique Property with Constant Motion

What makes The Battery Atlanta truly unique is the nonstop motion. It’s not just a one-venue location — it’s a sprawling, open-air space filled with life and movement from sunrise to well past sunset.

When asked what makes The Battery such a unique place to work, Kenard Daugherty, an exterior porter with SMS, said, “There are different types of people from different countries, cities, and cultures. It’s a very awesome place and job.” That constant blend of people and energy brings both excitement and responsibility.

Maintaining such a diverse and high-traffic property means being proactive, flexible, and prepared for anything. From routine maintenance and daily cleaning to supporting pop-up events, the SMS team is always in step with the pulse of The Battery.

Services That Keep The Battery Running Smoothly

At a busy and complex property like The Battery Atlanta, every detail matters. SMS is proud to provide a wide range of services that keep the entire environment clean, safe, and operational.

Our work goes well beyond standard janitorial tasks. On any given day, our team is responsible for

• Trash & Recycling Removal: Ensuring all waste and recycling bins are emptied regularly and efficiently, especially during high-traffic events.
• Parking Garage Cleaning & Maintenance: Sweeping, power washing, and maintaining multi-level garage facilities to provide a safe and welcoming first impression for guests.
• Pressure Washing High-Traffic Areas: Regular deep cleaning of sidewalks, plazas, and common spaces to remove buildup and keep the grounds looking pristine.
• Maintaining Cleanliness in High-Traffic Zones: Actively monitoring and cleaning busy walkways, gathering spaces, and high-touch surfaces throughout the day to ensure a clean and safe environment for guests.
• Exterior Debris & Landscaping Clean-Up: Keeping landscaped areas free from litter, leaves, and debris to maintain a polished appearance and prevent potential hazards.
• Restroom Cleaning & Stocking: Servicing restrooms throughout the property with high attention to hygiene and readiness.
• Event Support: Assisting with setup, teardown, and post-event cleaning to ensure a seamless experience for both guests and tenants.

This full-service approach allows SMS to act as a true partner to the property — one that is ready for the everyday hustle and prepared for the biggest events of the year. From the parking deck to the plaza, our teams are everywhere they need to be to support The Battery’s success.

Adapting to Events Big and Small

One of the main challenges and opportunities at The Battery is the frequency and scale of its events. Whether it’s a community gathering or a high-capacity night, SMS staff adapt seamlessly to meet the needs of the moment.

“Braves games draw a bigger volume of people, and that means the team has to consider more traffic than other events at the battery,” shared Jonathan Johnson, Supervisor of Housekeeping.

That means adjusting shift schedules, increasing coverage in high-traffic zones, and staying responsive in real time. Every event day has its own rhythm, and our team is always ready to match it.

“The functions there are always exciting and amazing to see!” added Sharon Clark, Office Cleaning Tech, capturing the sense of pride that comes from being part of something bigger than a single task or shift.

Preparing for the Spotlight: All-Star Game Readiness

Hosting the All-Star Game brings an entirely new level of visibility and volume to The Battery Atlanta. It’s an opportunity to showcase the space — and the people who keep it running — to fans from across the country.

To prepare, SMS is focused on some key areas:

• Staffing Up: Ensuring we have plenty of trained, experienced team members on-site to keep up with increased foot traffic.
• Stocking Smart: Double-checking inventory and supplies so we’re never caught off-guard during peak moments.
• Planning Ahead: Developing detailed cleaning and maintenance schedules with built-in flexibility for last-minute needs and real-time adjustments.

From grounds crews to housekeeping teams, everyone plays a part in making sure the experience is clean, comfortable, and safe for every guest.

Teamwork at the Core

The SMS crew at The Battery embodies our “Whatever it Takes!” attitude. Their dedication, adaptability, and attention to detail reflect our company-wide core values.

With All-Star Weekend approaching, we’re proud of the role our employees play in preparing this incredible space for the national stage. But whether it’s a weekday morning or the busiest night of the year, our mission remains the same: to provide clean, safe, and welcoming environments — every day.

Setting Teams Up to Thrive with SafePersonnel

A Look into How SMS Simplifies Onboarding and Elevates Performance with SafePersonnel.

Running a public facility is a complex operation. Whether you oversee a bustling airport, a convention center, or a retail complex, you’re constantly managing new hires, evolving safety protocols, and the need for consistent performance across your team. In such an environment, training is everything, but keeping it organized and up to date can be a serious challenge.

That’s why Service Management Systems (SMS) utilizes SafePersonnel, a comprehensive training platform built specifically to meet the needs of public facilities. With SafePersonnel, training isn’t just a one-time event—it becomes a streamlined, ongoing process that ensures every employee has the knowledge and tools to succeed from day one.

Consistency You Can Count On

One of the biggest hurdles in employee onboarding is maintaining consistency in training. Too often, training is left only to individual managers, which has benefits, but without a strong foundation, it can lead to confusion, uneven performance, and missed information. SafePersonnel eliminates those variables by allowing us to supplement hands-on training with a centralized curriculum that standardizes instruction across the workforce.

Every SMS employee receives the same high-quality training, built on our proven standards and tailored to your facility’s needs. This improves understanding and performance and helps reinforce your organization’s commitment to safety, professionalism, and service.

Real-Time Progress Tracking for Greater Oversight

With SafePersonnel, Site Managers and Divisional Leaders gain immediate visibility into employee training progress. The platform’s intuitive dashboard allows you to track completions, monitor assessment scores, and follow up with individuals who may need additional support. This level of oversight ensures that no one falls through the cracks—and it gives you peace of mind knowing your team is always up to speed.

In addition to tracking, the platform helps identify knowledge gaps through built-in online assessments. These brief, focused tests reinforce key lessons and verify that employees retain the information rather than just clicking through a video.

SafePersonnel also offers detailed, itemized reporting that breaks down training status at the individual level. Each report includes line-by-line data for every employee, showing what courses they’ve completed, what’s still pending, their assessment results, and any overdue requirements. This depth of reporting gives supervisors a clear, actionable picture of their team’s progress and makes it easy to target support where it’s needed most. Whether you’re managing a small team or a large, multi-site operation, these granular reports ensure no detail is missed.

Flexibility that Fits Your Facility

Public facilities often operate on tight schedules and across multiple shifts, which makes flexibility essential. SafePersonnel’s web-based platform enables employees to complete training when it works best for them—during onboarding, between shifts, or in large groups. Training with SafePersonnel can happen in whatever form works best for your public facility’s schedule.

Plus, because the platform is entirely digital, updates to training materials can be rolled out instantly, ensuring the SMS team always has access to the most current procedures, safety protocols, and standards.

Need a course that’s specific to your facility’s equipment or workflow? SafePersonnel allows SMS to create and deploy custom training modules, so your team receives highly relevant instruction reflecting the real-world tasks they’ll perform. Whether it’s onboarding walkthroughs, location-specific safety drills, or advanced cleaning protocols, these courses can be built in-house and tracked with the same precision as the rest of the platform’s training library.

Training That Builds Stronger Teams

SafePersonnel is more than a learning tool—it’s another way to ensure everyone on our team is equipped to do “Whatever it Takes!” for your public facility. By standardizing training, simplifying management oversight, enabling real-time reporting, and creating custom courses, SMS builds confident, capable teams ready to perform from the moment they step on the job.