Describes how a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), a centralized maintenance operations database that facilitates work order procedures and staff directives, can help individual school campuses and school districts to manage maintenance. Presents the benefits of CMMS and things to consider in CMMS selection. (EV)

Describes how using skylights and other daylighting methods can improve the efficiency of a school facility, enhancing the learning environment and simplifying maintenance. (EV)

Presents background information on the 1998 recipient of the third annual National School Plant Manager of the Year award and those receiving honorable mentions. The recipients are described as exemplifying the evolving role of the school facilities manager. (GR)

Discusses ways to make carpet maintenance in schools easier and effective for keeping carpeted areas in schools attractive and long lasting. Covers cleaning tips for basic spills, ideas for staying on top of stains, and suggestions for eliminating odors. (GR)

Discusses how some college maintenance managers are getting the most out of their tight maintenance budgets. Examples of cost-cutting measures are provided, including comparative shopping for cleaning chemicals, eliminating duplicate maintenance services for auxilliary units, motivating maintenance staff and employing students, and saving money…

Explains why schools should evaluate whether their older steam-heating systems are still cost-effective, or need to be repaired or replaced. The symptoms of deterioration are listed along with discussions on repair or replacement decision making on three areas of steam heating systems: boilers; distribution system; and terminal equipment. (GR)

Discusses terrazzo floor care after installation, and on a daily, weekly basis, and semi-annually basis. Cautionary notes on the types of cleaners to use are provided. (GR)

Shows how faster, more efficient machines can help maintenance staffs keep schools and universities clean and manage maintenance tasks more efficiently. (GR)

Presents some basic maintenance management techniques that can help schools meet their budgets, preserve staffing levels, meet productivity needs, and sustain quality services. Tips for staff recruitment, training, and retention are explored. (GR)

Discusses how as colleges deal with students protesting custodians' salaries, officials have had to weigh practicality against social justice. Includes a table of janitors' salaries in 1999-2000. (EV)

Explores how to improve roofing inspections so minor repair problems can be exposed while they are still inexpensive to repair. The need for regular inspections is advocated. Tips are provided for checking a roof for potential problems. (GR)

Examines tested techniques that can keep a school's carpeting in good condition. Cleaning with hot water extraction, removing spills and spots, handling emergency cleanups, and cleaning soft surface flooring are addressed. (GR)

Advises schools on keeping roofs healthy, thereby saving costly repairs to both the roof and the entire building. Discusses inspections, preventive-maintenance programs, weather, and when to re-roof. (EV)

Provides 11 suggestions that can make a college or university's window replacement project less complex and more easily completed. A window selection guide is included. (GR)

Presents advice from three university maintenance directors on what they see as the most important parts involved in keeping floors in top shape. Training, staff motivation, flexible scheduling, and proper use of supplies are addressed. (GR)