Assessing space utilisation relative to key performance indicators – how well, not how much, space is used

Abstract

Efficient use of resources, including space, is critical in academic departments. Traditional space auditing simply assesses occupancy levels. We present a novel approach which assesses not just the extent to which space is used, but also how well it is used. We link space use quantitatively to key performance indicators in a research-intensive university department. A clear picture of how well each room is being used to meet a range of performance goals is obtained. Performance criteria are developed based on the survey data distributions and benchmarked against performance expectations. These criteria are applied to analyse the survey data, readily identifying underperforming space. This provides management, through a transparent process, with evidence-based information with which to facilitate change management to improve performance.

Keywords:

• KPIs
• space usage
• space utilisation

Acknowledgements

We are grateful to Ms Marlyn Horgan, Ms Chindy Praseuthsouk, and all other members of the School of Physics, Professor Trevor Hambley for useful discussions and the Research Office, University of Sydney.