APPA Library

"Chapter 1: Buildings . . . The Gifts That Keep on Taking"
Author: Rose, Rodney, with David A. Cain, Ph.D.; James J. Dempsey, P.E.; and Rich Schneider
Published In: Buildings. . . The Gifts That Keep on Taking. A Framework for Integrated Decision Making
Date: 2007

Begins with the recognition that the image and reputation of many communities are inextricably intertwined.  Whether provided by taxpayers through public bonds, students and parents through fees, or the largesse of generous philanthropists, college and university buildings are a gift to those who live and work in them; the assumption of these "donors" is that the beneficiary institution will be responsible for both ongoing operations and maintenance costs. Once conceived and built these facilities often require costs that far exceed their initial design and construction. Reviews the challenges of deferred maintenance in the U.S. today and the fact that there has never been a comprehensive tool to fully understand the implications of investment choices in facilities over time. Cites the need for a comprehensive facilities investment strategy which provide a set of decision-making principles, tools, and analytical methods that would permit administrators and managers to understand and predict how the alternatives related to the development and management of facilities will affect the institution's entire academic mission. Briefly reviews the research project that informed this book. Includes a sidebar on the seven top facilities issues.

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