Explains how Stanford University custom designed its own building maintenance and administration software package: the Housing Operations Maintenance Enterprise Resource (HOMER). Describes how HOMER relieved facility maintenance staff from some archaic systems, and its development and functionality. (GR)

Shares tips for making the right purchases of furniture for college residence halls, including issues of durability, aesthetics, flexibility and floor space, and delivery. (EV)

Offers tips for higher education institutions on navigating the relationship with a privatized student housing developer: don't assume the project costs nothing, do understand the difference between your goals and the developer's, do create a feasibility study, don't treat every relationship the same, do put the student first, and don't forget the…

Discusses how, despite the renovation and construction activity college residence halls go through during the summer, planners can make sure dormitory furniture is ready when the students arrive. Suggestions are provided for the disposing of old furniture, project planning, incentives to help assure project completion dates, and cost-saving…