Caring for the Campus Physical Plant [microform]

Contending that the physical plants of colleges and universities are deteriorating and inadequately fit existing institutional programs, this report diagnoses causes underlying this neglect and recommends strategies for upgrading campus care and management. Pointed out as fundamental problems are: lack of integration of physical plant concerns with the institution's broader mission; the low priority given physical plant needs; the isolation of the physical plant director from institutional decisionmaking; lack of awareness of requisite funding; ineffective management of physical plant staff; and inefficient use of institutional facilities. When these issues have been addressed, facility requirements can be integrated into academic planning. It is recommended that a facilities planning group be established to break down the isolation of the plant department and that the support of top administrators and trustees be enlisted. A thorough physical plant audit on which budgeting can be based is prescribed. Proposed methods of improving plant department management include setting work objectives, establishing training programs and advancement incentives, and considering contracting out services. Analyzing the fit between programs and facilities and allocating space accordingly are advised. A comprehensive energy management program comprising an energy audit and conservation measures is recommended, and some computer-based models for financial planning are described. (MJL)