Strategic Alignment and Mission Support
- Goal: Ensure that the quantity and quality of space aligns with program needs, anticipated future growth, and the strategic roadmap.
- Space allocation must directly support UMD's core mission - integrating liberal education, research, creative activity, and public engagement while preparing students to thrive as learners and globally engaged citizens.
- Academic spaces (classrooms, labs) typically receive priority over administrative or non-academic spaces, while a cohesive balance of space is essential to belonging, student success, and a thriving UMD.
Optimal Utilization and Efficiency
Space is a valuable and limited resource that must be used as effectively and efficiently as possible. Space is assigned based on the function that provides the greatest value to the institution and students, not on rank or title. Vacant or underutilized space may be reassigned over time as the needs of the institution change. A key goal is space that is optimally organized and proximate to home programs, inter-disciplinary partners, and convenient for scholars. We meet the needs of students by providing space that is safe, welcoming, and promotes belonging.
Fair, Transparent, and Equitable Allocation
Our process is impartial, consistent, and well-communicated across all units. All space belongs to the Regents of the University, not to any specific unit. Assignments are allocated to programs or activities, not individuals. Guidelines aim to create a consistent approach for space allocation across similar functions to ensure fairness. Unit assigned space must work through the space management office to change, move, or exchange space.
Data-Informed and Accountable Management
Planning and decisions rely on accurate, complete, and regularly monitored data to ensure accountability and sound financial stewardship. Utilization data is needed to make informed decisions. Accurate space inventory and utilization reports are essential for justifying capital projects and budget decisions.
Flexibility and Adaptability
We seek to anticipate future needs and changes in programs, technology, and work modalities to help make spaces more easily reconfigurable. Design should encourage spaces that can be readily modified to support evolving pedagogies, research methods, and administrative needs. Promoting shared spaces helps maximize efficiency and supports activity-based work models, especially in the context of flexible work schedules.