The most difficult task for campus planners is making site selection recommendations based on qualitative facts that cannot be compared to each other. Any means of alternative site evaluation should include a flexible system of comparing such far-ranging criteria as visual impact, access to parking, and site development cost. (MLW)

The process used by California to revamp its college and university space and utilization standards is described. It involved establishing four space utilization and planning principles (simplicity, flexibility, accountability, consensus) and developed square footage formulas for four space types (classrooms, teaching laboratories, research space,…

Population growth and demographic trends in North American urban centers combined with job markets demanding higher levels of education have placed considerable pressure in recent years on postsecondary institutions to provide better access to undergraduate and graduate degree programs (Levin 2004; Zhang 2005). Kwantlen University College,…

In planning for the year 2010, Cornell University (New York) found that, although space for library collections must increase, advancing technology would slow the increase required, with most of the collection growth after 2000 managed through wider technology or remote storage. Consolidation of special libraries is also considered. (MSE)

Studies point out the need for collaboration between faculty and administrators that aims to integrate traditional faculty prerogatives with other variables of institutional renovation. The article suggests areas of difficulty and guidelines for dealing with problems in the collaboration process. (Author/MLF)

An approach is proposed whereby all institutions in a state higher education system may proceed to plan for the year 1990. The approach incorporates two major planning tools--Delphi and Multiple Scenario Analysis--and shows how a structured process can help an institution to generate alternative views of the future. (MLW)

Program review must transcend preoccupation with the past and become an integral part of planning for the future. Linking academic program reviews closely with formal institutional planning processes will benefit both. Academic planning, institutional practice, and obstacles are discussed. (MLW)

The recent trend toward faculty unionization provides an opportunity for both ends of the academic spectrum to reevaluate their respective planning roles. The collective bargaining process, which has served to sensitize faculty and administration alike, should eventually lead to more cooperative and effective institutional planning. (Editor/LBH)

Causes of project failure and common programing and design problems are discussed, including vague expectations, lack of architectural program detail, unwillingness to understand compromises, misunderstanding economics of audience size, site impact on budget, making a smaller facility less versatile, lobby expenses, late value engineering,…

Results of a study of college planning activities and processes are presented and discussed. The study investigated the trends in planning and institutional planning activities, based on a survey of the literature and of administrators, including site visits and interviews with key leaders in the field. (MSE)

It is argued that while the concept of "vision" in higher education has been met with disdain, criticism is based on misconceptions of vision's nature and role--that vision requires a charismatic administrator and that visionaries are dreamers. Educators and planners are urged to use imaginative thinking to connect the institution's and staff's…

The multiple scenario analysis technique for organizational planning used by multinational corporations is adaptable for colleges and universities. Arizona State University launched a futures-based planning project using the Delphi technique and cross-impact analysis to produce three alternative scenarios (stable, turbulent, and chaotic) to expand…

Examines the subtle and not-so-subtle factors underlying private/public partnership formation in university settings and proposes a framework of "institutional readiness" for engaging in such efforts. The experience of the California State University in its innovative technology infrastructure initiative is discussed as an example. (MSE)

Describes implementation of a system-level planning model focused on institutional improvement and effectiveness at the University of Missouri. Details implementation of three phases of the strategic planning model (strategic analysis, strategic thinking/decision-making, and campus outreach/systems administration planning); identifies critical…

Explores one innovative technique, Open Space, for involving faculty and staff in higher education planning through one- to three-day meetings with a planning theme but minimum structure and no preset agenda. Offers examples of the method's use in planning curriculum reform, information technology, campus planning, and classroom teaching at Keene…