As UCF works toward implementation of its strategic plan, Facilities and Business Operations launched a campus-wide space utilization study aimed at leveraging our significant investment in physical spaces.
The project began in November 2022 and is scheduled to be completed by May 2023. UCF has partnered with an experienced consultant group consisting of DLR Group and Comprehensive Facilities Planning to assist with the study.
Please refer to this website for more information and updates regarding the space study.
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What is a space utilization study?
A space utilization study provides the university with data on how classrooms, labs, offices, research and support, and other spaces are being used. It will allow leaders to maximize the efficient use of facilities in terms of scheduling, and assist with establishing or modifying space usage policies and procedures.
Why does UCF need to do a space study?
This study is a key step in transforming UCF into the university for the future as outlined in the Strategic Plan. The results of this project will provide leadership with clear steps toward meeting the goals tied to student success and well-being, community and culture, and innovation and sustainability.
Examples:
- Provide more availability of space in Research Park to lease to third-party, private industries, thus opening the doors for partnership and learning opportunities with students and faculty.
- Meet programmatic demands called for in the Strategic Plan with a more efficient use of our current real estate portfolio. This is consistent with current funding methodologies that create easier pathways for renovation of existing space versus new construction.
What information will UCF receive from this study?
- An in-depth analysis of current space utilization
- Recommendations for increasing space-use efficiencies
- An analysis of methods to improve space solutions in support of flexible work arrangements
- Identification of opportunities for re-allocating and re-purposing existing space to meet current and future needs
What happens during a space utilization study?
The consultants will meet with leaders across the university to gather feedback on several topics and will review UCF’s classroom scheduling procedures and utilization policies.
Consultants will also assess the condition and usage of:
- Classrooms
- Teaching labs
- Research labs
- Office spaces
Spaces in the following locations will be included in the study:
- Main Campus
- Lake Nona Health Sciences Campus
- Downtown Campus
- Research Park
- UCF Foundation leased buildings
- Partnership Buildings
- Note: Rosen College of Hospitality Management excluded, forthcoming focused planning effort for their campus
Study Milestones
- November 2022 and December 2022 – Consultant team tours of campus buildings to look at existing spaces
- November 2022 and December 2022 – Data collection from various university entities
- December 2022 – Focus groups with representatives from university departments
- January 2023 – Data verification with representatives from university departments
- January and February 2023 – Present update to university leadership and Board of Trustees
- February and March 2023 – Prepare draft findings
Project Timeline
Questions?
Please contact Jon Bates, AVP of Real Estate, at Jonathon.Bates@ucf.edu.