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Space Utilization at UCF

March 2024 Update

The space study final report is now available. Please note that this version does not include the clinical space utilization analysis, which is forthcoming.

September 2023 Update

Space Study Conclusion: The space utilization study concluded in June with a presentation of findings to the Board of Trustees (BOT). Space Administration will begin moving toward implementation of these findings by making recommended next steps to the BOT. Click here to see the key findings.

Additionally, data collection and analysis of research spaces is on-going, as well as analysis and final recommendations for clinical spaces. A final written report will be posted upon completion.

Space Management Policy: The Comprehensive Space Management Policy was adopted in June, and Space Administration will now respond to space requests in alignment with the revised policy. Click here for a guide to the space management policy.  

Space Study Background

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 concluded with a presentation of findings to the Board of Trustees in June 2023. UCF partnered with an experienced consultant group consisting of DLR Group and Comprehensive Facilities Planning to assist with the study.

Links

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 allows leaders to maximize the efficient use of facilities in terms of scheduling, and assists with establishing or modifying space usage policies and procedures. 

Why did UCF 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 did 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 happened during the space utilization study?

The consultants met with leaders across the university to gather feedback on several topics and reviewed UCF’s classroom scheduling procedures and utilization policies. 

Consultants also assessed the condition and usage of:

  • Classrooms
  • Teaching labs
  • Research labs
  • Office spaces
  • Clinical spaces

Spaces in the following locations were included in the study:

  • Main Campus
  • Lake Nona Health Sciences Campus
  • Downtown Campus
  • Research Park
    • UCF Foundation leased buildings
    • Partnership Buildings
  • Rosen Campus

Study Milestones

  • November and December 2022 – Consultant team tours of campus buildings to look at existing spaces
  • November and December 2022 – Data collection from various university entities
  • December 2022 – Focus groups with representatives from university departments
  • January through May 2023 – Data verification with representatives from university departments
  • February 2023 – Present update to university leadership and Board of Trustees
  • May and June 2023 – Prepare draft findings
  • June 2023 – Present findings to university leadership and Board of Trustees