subject: UK University Funding Cuts - Can Efficient Space Management Offer A Ray Of Light? [print this page] Author: Andy Guest Author: Andy Guest
There has been a great deal of consternation about the possible effects of funding cuts in the UK Higher Education sector. According to the BBC Leaders of the UKs most prestigious universities have warned government plans to cut funding will lead to a higher education meltdown. Every university and college is bracing for stringent economies, at the same time as uncertainty in the job market is driving people towards higher education courses. The current indications are that the funding cuts may have a devastating effect on staff and students, with the prospect of job losses and course closures in many institutions. But there are ways in which the universities could lessen some of the pain of the budget cuts. Because the provision and maintenance of space forms a significant proportion of the budget of all universities, more efficient utilisation of buildings and rooms could have a dramatic effect on the bottom line, helping to alleviate the effects of the budget cuts and perhaps saving courses and jobs. This could be a 'ray of light' in an otherwise gloomy outlook for UK universities and colleges. According to John Pryzibilla of Mosaic Space UK, Savings in the millions of pounds can be achieved through the more efficient use of built space. Options include the reallocation of space which is little or poorly used, targeted refurbishment, and extension of the teaching week or teaching terms. Long-term savings can be achieved by implementing operational change in the short to medium term. Space utilisation rates can be markedly improved with the combined application of automated timetabling systems and space utilisation analysis software. A large metropolitan university has reported savings of more than 30% in the teaching room provision, by using the RUIS space utilisation analysis software to determine poorly used space, then re-scheduling the timetable using an automated scheduling package to reallocate classes more compactly. The resulting savings in space negated the need for new building work and, by converting the space to conference facilities, has provided the university with much needed additional revenue. The Directors of Mosaic Space UK are available to discuss: How universities can reduce the need for additional building development through effective use of spatial planning and timetabling How universities can generate revenue by renting out additional space which has become available through effective room utilisation How universities can create flexible-use facilities on campus to offer significant benefits to the university and the local community For more information about Mosaic Space UK, visithttp://ww.mosaic-space.co.uk For details about the RUIS room utilisation information system, go to http://www.mosaicsd.com/ruis.htmAbout the Author:
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