Completed CFaR Projects

[Completed CFaR projects have undergone a thorough, blind peer-review process. Affiliations listed are those at the time of completion.]

Maintenance Decision Criteria in Facility Management
[CFaR038-18]
Principal Investigator:
Deniz Besiktepe, Ph.D., FMP, Purdue University Polytechnic Institute
with co-authors Mehmet E. Ozbek, Ph.D. and Rebecca Atadero, Ph.D., both of Colorado State University
[Read the complete report]

Abstract:
Building maintenance plays a critical role in ensuring that buildings perform according to required standards and minimizing the risk of equipment and system failures. Maintenance and repair activities account for 79% of total FM responsibilities within FM organizations. Moreover, average maintenance costs increased by 72% between 2007 and 2017.

Building maintenance decisions have significant importance on the effective work of building systems, components, and equipment simultaneously. Given the complexity of maintenance processes, which involve numerous factors and complicate decision-making, there is a growing need for a mechanism that can help navigate these challenging scenarios. Multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM), a branch of operations research, led to the development of various methods to solve complex issues with conflicting criteria under different circumstances and fields of application.

Measuring the Current Practices of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Principles Used in the Procurement of Flooring in Education Environments
[CFaR036-17]
Principal Investigators:
Theodore J. (Ted) Weidner, Ph.D., PE, RA, DBIA, CEFP, APPA Fellow, Purdue University
Jonathan Stanley, Tarkett
with early contributions from Jeffrey L. Campbell, Ph.D., Brigham Young University (retired)
[Read the complete report]

Abstract:
This study looks at a single facility component, flooring, and identifies the importance of Total
Cost of Ownership (TCO) and its implications in the education market. It describes TCO and
the current market implications and demonstrates how it applies to flooring so facilities
management can feel confident in the selection and standardization around high-performance
products. Multiple graphs are used to explain how the application of these tools can be easily
understood and used in facility planning decisions.

This report, based on a survey of more than 340 facilities managers, planners, and architects
across the U.S. and Canada, reviews the external factors affecting flooring conditions, reasons
to maintain flooring to protect facility occupants, and applies the total cost of ownership of a
well-maintained flooring system compared to choosing perceived cheaper methods of reduced
maintenance and evaluating different performance levels of products. The study concludes with
a recommended method to evaluate flooring considering initial, maintenance, renewal, and end-of-
life costs. The recommended method can be applied easily and used to support
expenditures for new or replacement flooring and demonstrate total cost of ownership in
decision making.

Performance Management through Service Quality Perspective [2024]
[CFaR042-23]
Principal Investigator:
Tanaporn “Gig” Supanichrattana, CEFP, Illinois State University
[Read the complete report]

Abstract:
As educational facilities professionals, we are the stewards of customers’ experiences. In response to the ever-changing needs of our customers, the quality of service we provide isn’t just about maintaining buildings and grounds—it’s about creating environments that support and enhance the overall customer experience. Our role extends far beyond bricks and mortar; we are responsible for cultivating environments that foster learning, growth, and innovation. This is why service quality isn’t just an operational concern—it’s a fundamental aspect of our mission and a key driver of organizational excellence.

In the context of educational facilities, service quality measures the extent to which the services provided by a facilities organization meet the needs and expectations of the campus community members. Service quality encompasses more than just final outcomes; it focuses on the entire customer experience, especially how services are provided and perceived. In other words, it involves evaluating both the service outcomes and the processes by which they are delivered.

Custodian Impact on Student Success [2024]
[CFaR039-18]
Principal Investigator:
Steven D. Gilsdorf, CEFP, Yale University
[Read 2018 Facilities Manager article]
[Read the complete report]

Abstract:
Custodial operations are the key to many things happening in the workplace—health, attendance, performance, morale. In the higher education world, custodial services play a small but key part in the story of student success that campuses should be aware of.

Regrettably, the custodian’s story is one that is often overlooked and undervalued. Custodians have a unique place on campus and a unique position to assist student success. They work in every place, and they see every face on campus, in the classrooms and hallways of academic buildings, and in the living and lounging areas of the residence halls where those students are more vulnerable and open to and, possibly, in need of influence. It is the custodian’s unique role that allows them to be overlooked, as well as place them into a unique position to help students in need.

When speaking of students, there is the greater academic need in which the custodian has their main role. The reference of the custodian’s unique role isn’t toward assisting all students, or a particular cadre of students. This reference is regarding a student, as in singular. These singular instances can have an impact felt beyond the classroom.

Examining Benefits Realization Management in University Capital Projects – Early Observations of Current Practices [2024]
[CFaR041-22]
Principal Investigator:
Ian Wagschal, University of King’s College
with academic mentor:
Kenn Sullivan, Ph.D., Arizona State University
[Read the complete report]

Abstract:
This document is a summary of a study that provides preliminary observations of the state of Benefits Realization Management (BRM) in the context of university capital projects. The study uses a survey tool to seek i) evidence that universities are using Benefits Realization Management methods, and ii) evidence that universities may be facing challenges to obtaining strategic benefits from their capital construction projects. By interpreting the survey data and employing a linear regression model, early observations suggest that universities are only sparingly using BRM, and that the delivery of benefits is a problem for university capital projects. These findings suggest the need for additional research focused on developing a statistically predictive model for benefits realization and identifying best practices for Benefits Realization Management (BRM) within the university setting.

Reducing Risk: An Examination of Use and Perceived Effectiveness of Risk Management Strategies at NCAA Collegiate Athletic Facilities [2021]
[CFaR042-20]
Principal Investigators:
Angela Hayslett, J.D., James Madison University
Emeka Anaza, Ph.D., James Madison University
[Read the complete report.]

Abstract:
There are numerous collegiate athletic facilities in the United States for which exists a need for effective risk management strategies. For athletic facility managers to reduce risk, they should understand which risk management strategies are used and are effective. The purpose of this study is to explore which risk management strategies NCAA Division I (D-I), II (D-II), and III (D-III) athletic facility managers use and their perceived effectiveness.

There are two research objectives for this study:

1. To explore which risk management strategies are used by NCAA athletic facility managers
2. To examine NCAA athletic facility managers perception of the effectiveness of risk management strategies to reduce risk

Deploying Disruptive Technology with a Disruptive Approach to Leadership [2021]
[CFaR041-20]
Principal Investigators:
Adam Lawver, CEFP, Michigan State University
Sean O’Connor, Michigan State University, retired
[Read an excerpt in Facilities Manager]
[Order the complete monograph]

Abstract:
How do you advance a culture of high performance? The highest levels of performance require the deepest levels of trust. As you deploy disruptive technologies—“changing the game” for how you do what you do—then fostering trust becomes equally or more important than the actual technologies being deployed.

The research provides examples of how we deployed disruptive technologies to improve our performance and described in detail the leadership approaches taken. New technologies not yet deployed are also provided along with the leadership approaches we will take once we begin deployment.

To measure the effectiveness of the leadership approaches to foster deep trust, we have deployed an internal survey to measure the current levels of trust and will continue to deploy new ways to measure our progress of leaders to foster trusting relationships among the workforce.

Managing Trees on Campus: A Survey of North American College and University Tree Care Practices and Operations [2019]
[CFaR037-18]
Principal Investigator:
Mikaela Schmitt-Harsh, Ph.D., James Madison University
[Read the complete report]

Abstract:
Trees are a recognized and significant asset to colleges and universities. For trees to remain an asset and to increase in value, they require care and regular maintenance. This report shows how institutions are managing their trees on average, and estimates the extent to which college campuses are treed. This is the first survey study that we know of that focuses specifically on the college campus forest landscape.

Current State of Practice for Condition Assessment Methods and the Facility Condition Index as a Measure [2018]
[CFaR034-16]
Principal Investigators:
Glenda Mayo, Ph.D., CDT, LEED-AP, CFM, University of North Carolina Charlotte
Pauline Karanja, M.S., University of North Carolina Charlotte
[Report not currently available]

Abstract:
The facility condition assessment provides a snapshot of the condition of a facility to define capital budget needs for major repairs and replacements over a specific timeframe. However, the limitations of research for the state of practice for facilities management FCAs is due to the limited number of years that most owners have been conducting assessments. Nonetheless, the importance of the FCA stage in the asset management process is integral to the overall performance of buildings. A review of the current standard of practice for FCAs revealed that although the industry has established general practices, there remains a lack of standardization regarding the methods and metrics for condition assessments. There is an industry need to identify the current state of practice for data collection and analysis methods used during the FCA process.

Issues with Recovery and Recharge in Higher Education [2018]
[CFaR033-15]
Principal Investigators:
Glen Haubold, New Mexico State University
David Reynolds, P.E., CEFP, University of North Texas
[Read the complete research report]

Abstract:
Recovery and recharge were generally initiated as a methodology to recapture and recover costs incurred for “non-maintenance” minor remodeling in the 1980s. Many institutions used this cost recovery to finance the addition of staff. As institutional physical plant departments grew more sophisticated and evolved into the professional management organizations that they are today, growth of “construction crews” and the full recovery of administrative costs allowed departments to expand further through billing for non-maintenance work. The investigation explores the role that recovery and recharge play in the overall facility budget, as well as the benefits and challenges that this creates for the facilities unit.

Aligning Facility Management with an Organization’s Core Business [2017]
[CFaR028-13]
Principal Investigator:
Jerome Roberson, Ph.D., Howard University Law School
[Read the complete research report]

Abstract:
Facility management is a profession in which facility managers are employed to manage a diverse set of services, personnel, and built environments to accomplish organizational goals. Four research questions were used to examine the maturity level of facility management in a university environment. How does strategic alignment compare facility management services with an organization’s core business? How are facility management services considered essential to an organization’s core business? How do facility management services provide value to an organization’s core business? How does facility management’s reputation play a role in the alignment of facility management services with an organization’s core business? The study findings showed significant support for the maturity relationship between facility management reputation and an organization’s core business. In contrast, the study findings showed little support for the maturity relationship between facility services, facility essential services, and the value of facility services.

Trends in Utility Infrastructure Renewal and Operations Business Models [2016]
[CFaR032-15]
Principal Investigator:
James J. Sebesta, P.E., FVB Energy Inc.
[Read the complete research report]

Abstract:
Many institutions face the daunting question of how to fund large infrastructure renewal projects. Through survey information, this research project documents trends, processes, and methods used by public and private higher education facilities to invest in utility infrastructure renewal, deferred maintenance, capital expansion, and operations in order to maintain sustainable, efficient, and reliable utility systems for campus buildings.

The RMA 14ers Club: A Model for Facilities Mentoring [2015]
[CFaR027-12]
Principal Investigator:
John P. Morris, P.E., CEFP, Northern Arizona University
[Read the summary article]
[Read the complete research report]

Abstract:
There is a strong need for professional-level, leadership-level, and APPA organizational-level mentoring for emerging professionals within the educational facilities profession. The 14ers Club, a mentoring program developed by APPA’s Rocky Mountain region, or its counterparts within each APPA region or chapter, is designed with this in mind. Can a mentoring program help accelerate emerging professionals within their profession, institutional leadership, and along their APPA journey? With assistance from APPA’s six regions, this research will assess and suggest a recognition, networking, and mentoring program that can be utilized by all of APPA’s regions and chapters.

Facility Matters: The Perception of Academic Deans Regarding the Role of Facilities in Higher Education [2015]
[CFaR029-14]
Principal Investigator:
Wallace L. Harris, Ed.D., University of North Florida
[Read the complete research report]

Abstract:
Despite more then 60 years of research on the topic of academic learning spaces and the facilities impact on learning, the preponderance of the research has been conducted at the K-12 level. This study seeks to expand this body of knowledge by exploring the subjective perspectives at the higher education level. In keeping with Q methodology, there is only one research question: “What are the distinct collective perspectives held by academic deans regarding the characteristics of learning facilities that influence student learning?”

Instituting and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence: A Phenomenological Study of the Winners of the Award for Excellence, the Highest Institutional-Level Award Issued by APPA – Leadership in Educational Facilities [2014]
[CFaR026-11]
Principal Investigator:
Joseph K. Han, Ed.D., Cleveland State University
[Read the report/doctoral dissertation]

Abstract:
American institutions of higher education are being challenged to ensure the provision of quality, affordable, accessible, and accountable education. Developing and providing a service culture of excellence is vital to achieving these challenges; Baldrige quality criteria is accepted as one standard for excellence. In 1988, APPA instituted an Award for Excellence program based on the Baldrige criteria. Only a handful of universities and colleges have formally pursued and secured the Award for Excellence issued by APPA. If the external and internal pressures for excellence are so critical, what does it take for a campus to initiate and sustain a culture of excellence?

The purpose of the study is to better understand, based on the perceptions of excellence award winners, the key factors and conditions needed to initiate and sustain a culture of excellence. This phenomenological study explores the shared experiences among the winners of the Award for Excellence in Facilities Management, the highest institutional-level award issued by APPA.

The Development of an Instrument Measuring Elements of the Outdoor Physical Campus Environment for Student Satisfaction and Perceived Importance [2012]
[CFaR024-11]
Principal Investigator:
Erica Eckert, Ph.D., Kent State University
[Read the report/doctoral dissertation] 

Abstract:
With limited resources, it is difficult to justify expenditures that fail to yield results. Assessment provides for the investigation of initiatives for their relative success or effectiveness with a specific population. An institution’s outdoor physical campus environment is rarely the object of careful assessment, and yet is an area of great expense. As campus planners prioritize projects, there is value in knowing which ones net the greatest satisfaction and are of the most importance to current students, which can serve as proxy for prospects. As institutions are charged with the task of bringing the most qualified prospects to fruition as enrolled students, and at the same time retaining the ones who do enroll, expenditures should be considered as they relate to increasing satisfaction of prospective and current students in an efficient way. Assessing the outdoor physical campus environment will allow administrators to understand the level of satisfaction students have with the physical campus environment and which areas, if improved or left to languish would have the greatest impact.

The purpose of this study was to develop an instrument that asks current students about their satisfaction with elements of the outdoor campus environment as defined by campus design and campus ecology literature. Additionally, the participants were asked to rate the importance of these elements, which provided a sense of magnitude not necessarily found in a simple measure of satisfaction. The information collected through the developed questionnaire provided valuable feedback for campus planners and facilities managers, and may even be useful as a tool for benchmarking or competitor analysis.

Relating Facility Performance Indicators with Organizational Sustainability in Public Higher Education Facilities [2012]
[CFaR023-10]
Principal Investigator: 
Gregory K. Adams, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee
[Read the report]

Abstract:
This research sought to identify how an organization’s facility management (FM) practices relate with the state of sustainability in the organization. A review of the literature led to presentation of a model defining these relationships. The concepts of direct and indirect FM sustainability roles in organizational sustainability are presented. Accepted facility metrics found in the APPA Facilities Performance Indicators (FPI) survey and report are used as indicators of FM in University System of Georgia institutions and are tested for correlation with sustainability best practices scores generated in an assessment performed for this research. FM performance indicators representing the direct role of FM are not found to be correlated with organizational sustainability best practices and the indirect sustainability role of FM likely offers facility managers greater opportunities to advance sustainability within higher education organizations.

The National Campus Safety and Security Project and Its Impact on Educational Facilities [2010]
[CFaR020-08]
Principal Investigator:
William M. Elvey, University of Texas at Dallas, Past APPA President
[Read the report]

Abstract:
Historically, colleges and universities have thought of campus safety and security in the context of crimes against individuals or property. In recent years, safety and security efforts on campus have grown to include both random and organized violent actions that represent threats to our human, physical, and cyber assets. Additionally, the impact of natural disasters have necessitated the need for comprehensive emergency preparedness planning.

The focus of the research, conducted through the National Safety and Security Project, was to develop comprehensive emergency management plans to deal with all hazards that address the four phases of emergency management: prevention/mitigation; preparedness, response; and recovery.

The National Safety and Security Project was an initiative spearheaded by the National Association of College and University Business Officers and supported by several education associations, including APPA. The principal investigator was the 2008-09 APPA President and APPA’s representative to the project. 

Strategic Capital Development: The New Model for Campus Investment [2010]
[CFaR018-09]
Principal Investigators:
Harvey H. Kaiser, Harvey H. Kaiser Associates, Inc. 
Eva Klein, Eva Klein & Associates, Ltd. 
[Read an excerpt: The Six Principles of Facilities Stewardship]
[Read an excerpt: Beyond the Condition Audit] 
[Order the book] 

Abstract:
This research presents a bold approach for planning capital investments from a strategic and long-range perspective. The researchers define stewardship principles necessary to create and sustain a built environment that is responsive to institutional strategies and functions; remains attractive to faculty and students; and optimizes available resources.

The report, published in book form in 2010, provides a summary of how capital planning and funding practices in higher education have evolved from the late 1940s to the present; makes the case for why change is needed, based on an examination of environment/context factors; and provides the proposed model for improved campus investment. 

The Development and Application of Policy-Based Tools for Green Buildings [2009]
[CFaR015-08]
Principal Investigator:
Anthony F. Cupido, P.Eng., McMaster University
[Executive Summary]
[Read the report] 

Abstract:
Sustainable or green building practices have been adopted recently by many higher education institutions for their new campus buildings and major renovations.  To date, no formal study has been conducted to determine if policy is essential for sustainable building practices and the implementation of LEED® for these institutional green buildings in North America.  A mixed-methods approach consisting of a quantitative survey and qualitative interviews was undertaken with senior facility professionals at higher education institutions in North America.  The first portion of this research has been published as “Evaluating Institutional Green Buildings Policies: A Mixed-Methods Approach.” 

The survey evaluated the institution’s use of a policy, guideline, standard, law, or goal related to sustainable building practices and the interview identified specific practices as well as issues such as leadership, policy compliance, and barriers to adopting sustainable building policies.  This paper provides a framework for an institutional sustainable building policy that is suitable to use as a template for senior facility professionals and their specific policy development.  This work contributes to a foundation for future research related to sustainable/green building policy development and its application to the higher education sector.

Mining for Gems Using APPA’s 2007 and 2008 Facilities Performance Indicators [2009]
[CFaR014-06]
Principal Investigator:
Margaret P. (Maggie) Kinnaman, University of Maryland Baltimore, Past APPA President
[Read the report]
[Learn more about the FPI] 

Abstract:
This research project was intended to add credibility to the results of the APPA Facilities Performance Indicators (FPI) survey results.  Currently survey results are examined using descriptive statistics such as the mean, median, and standard deviation.  Additionally, a number of functional slices of the data are examined.  These include such areas as Region, Carnegie Classification, and Funding.  

This research study examines relationships amongst ratios to assist survey participants in telling a story of cause and effect.  The study focused on 75 relationships that span the range of the seven essential questions that form the organizing framework of the annual FPI survey and report.

The Impact of Levels of Cleanliness on the Academic Achievement of Students [2008]
[CFaR013-08]
Principal Investigators:
Alan S. Bigger, Earlham College, Past APPA President
Jeffrey L. Campbell, Brigham Young University
[Executive Summary]
[Get the report]

Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a direct correlation between cleanliness and the resulting academic grade(s) of students. In 1992, APPA published the first edition of Custodial Staffing Guidelines for Educational Facilities; the second edition was published in 1998. This seminal document set the precedent for correlating levels of productivity and cleaning of facilities and has been used as justification for appropriate staffing levels at institutions. In addition, ISSA has long established cleaning times and guidelines that also address productivity issues.

However, such data is now being brought into question as performance indicators are being used to address specific outcomes of maintenance programs. The principal investigators led a team of researchers representing APPA and ISSA to collect data, review and research relevant literature, and determine whether levels of staffing and cleaning have an affect on the academic achievement of students.

Buildings…The Gifts That Keep on Taking: A Framework for Integrated Decision-Making [2007]
[CFaR005-03]
Principal Investigators:
Douglas K. Christensen, Brigham Young University, Past APPA President
Rod Rose, STRATUS – A Heery Company
Terry W. Ruprecht, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
[Executive Summary] 
[Buy the book]

Abstract:
APPA’s Center for Facilities Research (CFaR) is sponsored and conducted research that produced a widely accepted model for understanding the total cost of investing in and maintaining college and university facilities. This Strategic Investment Model and Asset Investment Strategy is intended to assist higher education policy makers (e.g., presidents and chancellors, boards of trustees, legislators, etc.) to better understand the impact of major decisions on such key issues as resource allocation, building design criteria, recruitment and retention of faculty and students, construction strategies, the nature of the learning and research environment, and accountability measures.  Completed and published in July 2007.

The Effect of Educational Facilities on Recruitment and Retention of Students [2006]
[CFaR006-03]
Principal Investigators:
David A. Cain, Carter & Burgess, Inc.
Gary L. Reynolds, The Colorado College, Past APPA President
[Read Executive Summary: Research Findings; 
Read Executive Summary: Comparative Analysis; 
Order the full report]

Abstract:
In 1984 the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching conducted a study evaluating the decision-making process of parents and potential students in selecting an institution of higher education.  [Carnegie Foundation Survey of the Transition from High School to College, 1984-85; a summary of results was published as How Do Students Choose a College in the January/February 1986 issue of Change.]

This research project will update and more fully explore the impact of the type and quality of educational facilities on the recruitment and retention of today’s parents and students.  The project will confirm and clarify the relative correlation of the various facilities related issues to recruitment and retention decision-making process of parents and students.

Traversing the Culture Continuum: Organizational Culture and Productivity [2005]
[CFaR004-03]
Principal Investigator:
Glenn R. Smith, Bryn Mawr College, Past APPA President
[Executive Summary] 

Abstract:
The organizational culture of our institutions that collection of assumptions, behaviors, values, rites, rituals, and folklores is so resistant to change that it is preventing us from controlling our own destiny as the hurricane force winds of 21^st century change blow over us. 

Until we understand the concept of institutional culture and the forces at work that determine each institutions unique culture, and until we start to realize the cultural alternatives that exist and how to go about making conscious cultural choices, we will never control our own destiny.  We will be constantly frustrated in our attempts to realize our vision, and likely to become victims of those forces of change outside of our control.  It is a simple concept that results are derived from behaviors, but behaviors are reinforced by an organizations culture.  Our ability to control results to form our own future is dependent upon our ability to adjust our culture.

The culture continuum identifies five major components that work together to create an organization’s culture leadership style, assumptions about people, motivational techniques, relationships, and sustaining forces.   Each of these components spans a continuum of extremes, from a traditional culture at one extreme contrasted with a stewardship approach on the other.  Any meaningful culture change must start with a realization of where an organization currently resides on this culture continuum, and an understanding of where it needs to reside in order to improve its effectiveness in this ever-changing world.

Structuring In-House Construction Rates in Colleges and Universities [2004]
[CFaR007-03]
Principal Investigators:
Donald J. Guckert, University of Iowa, Past APPA President
Jeri Ripley King, University of Iowa
[Executive Summary]

Abstract:
A number of facilities departments at U.S. colleges and universities recharge their in-house construction services, but how they establish charge-out rates is not well-understood. This study sought comparative information on recharge rates to develop a template for structuring in-house construction rates.

The data was analyzed to determine: 1) the current ratio of recharge rates to direct wages as a way to control for dollar amount variances due to geographical location, union versus non-union, private versus public, and small versus large institutions; and 2) the factors that influence the ratio (or multiplier) to the direct wage. The development of a template for structuring in-house construction rates will be a fundamental part of the study conclusions. A summary was published in the July/August 2004 issue of Facilities Manager.

Negotiating Win-Win A/E Professional Services Agreements A Case Study Phase I [2004]
[CFaR011-04]
Principal Investigator:
Don Chrusciel, Iowa State University
With Christopher Ahoy (Past APPA President), Kelly McCool, and Dean Morton, all Iowa State University 
[Executive Summary]

Abstract:
The selection of a design professional is an important task for an institution, concerning its physical assets, and it is imperative to hire the best-qualified professional. When combining the interest of being a good steward of university assets, along with the interest to obtain services better, cheaper, and faster, these paradigms come together at a focal point, when an institution goes into negotiations with an external A/E vendor.  At stake is more than the acquisition of services. There is also the establishment of a partnership to arrive at the best outcome satisfying all interested participants dealing with capital projects, which usually have a long life span.

In an interest to secure the most qualified consultant, and receive the best services for the agreed upon fees, all pertinent factors need to be taken into consideration. In order to achieve this win-win scenario, representatives for the institution must negotiate with the external A/E service providers to arrive at an acceptable professional agreement having equitable terms for both sides. In order to optimize the arrangement, it is recognized that establishing a common understanding between the groups by using a published basic services guide is a valuable first step. In other words, the expectations of the customers entitlement and the providers needs and intentions are aligned.

The Relationship Between Organizational Climate and Job Satisfaction for Directors of Physical Plants [2004]
[CFaR003-03]
Principal Investigator:
Frederic J. Gratto, University of Florida
[Executive Summary]
[Get the report]

Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between measures of organizational climate and measures of job satisfaction as applied to directors of physical plants. Another purpose of this study was to determine if there were significant differences in the means for job satisfaction when controlling for gender, ethnicity, classification of the institution by size and type, number of years as director of physical plant at current institution, and type of institution.

These analyses revealed that personal concerns, internal communication, organizational structure, and evaluation were the organizational climate factors related to job satisfaction for directors of physical plants. The eight job satisfaction variables investigated were: decision-making; autonomy, power and control; relationship with peers; relationship with subordinates; relationship with supervisor; salary; benefits; and professional effectiveness.

The Facility Condition Index as a Measure of the Condition of Public Universities in the United States as Perceived by the End Users [2003]
[CFaR008-03]
Principal Investigator:
Robert J. Quirk, California State University, Long Beach 
[Executive Summary]

Abstract:
The Facility Condition Index (FCI) is a relatively new term gaining more widespread use by university administrators to determine the relative condition of their campus facilities.  This study will attempt to determine if the FCI is a reliable measure of facilities condition from the perspective of the end users in the classroom.

Data will be collected through existing empirical studies of universities who have established their FCI as reported through recognized sources such as the Strategic Assessment Model for Continuous Improvement, as published by APPA, and through a proportionate stratified sampling of the populations faculty and students.

The researcher also expects that these findings will provide additional credence to the FCI measurement and reveal an association between customer satisfaction and the condition of our public universities as measured by the Facility Condition Index.

Implementing the Capital Plan [2003]
[CFaR002-02]
Principal Investigators:
William A. Daigneau, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Jack Hug, Past APPA President
[Report, Order the book] 

Abstract:
Developing a comprehensive long-term capital plan to manage the facilities portfolio is a major challenge.  Implementing that plan is yet another.  Not all projects in the capital plan carry the same priority.  Generally, most projects fall into one of two categories: 1) projects necessary to maintain the operational integrity of the institution, including code compliance or regulatory mandates, support infrastructure such as utilities or transportation, and major repairs or rehabilitation; or 2) projects that have a strategic importance to the institution and those that further its mission and goals, such as new construction or renovations necessary to enhance programs or accommodate growth or mission expansion or redirection. Published as chapter in the APPA/NACUBO book, Planning and Managing the Campus Facilities Portfolio, 2003.

Workplace Violence in Higher Education [2003]
[CFaR001-02]
Principal Investigator:
Edward D. Rice, Kansas State University, Past APPA President
[Executive Summary, Report]

Abstract:
The purpose of this quantitative study was to determine if there is a difference between college and university chief business officers, facilities directors, and personnel directors regarding their views of workplace violence issues.  The target population was the 1,200 United States higher education member institutions of APPA, from which 400 were randomly selected.  The three administrators at the selected institutions were sent a letter inviting participation in an email survey.

The data from the responses indicates there is a difference between the three administrators regarding: 1) their understanding of workplace violence, 2) their organizational need for prevention and training, and 3) differences based on demographic characteristics.  The comments from 50 respondents provided additional insight into the three administrators’ understanding of workplace violence and added support to the findings.