Preliminary Findings From Campus Space Use Study to be Presented Oct. 1-2

Roy G. Cordell

Preliminary findings on research space and future space needs will be presented to campus Oct. 1-2. SmithGroup, a consultant specializing in space and design planning, will present the findings as a part of the university's ongoing, yearlong Campus Space Use Study. 

To evaluate future space needs, SmithGroup will use information provided by campus leadership on enrollment and staffing scenarios to model the amount of instructional, administrative and research space that would be needed to support those scenarios.

"SmithGroup's work modeling future state scenarios will allow the university to plan ahead and account for future growth projections and space needs," said Vice Provost for Planning Colleen Briney. "By conducting this study, we have a better idea of our existing spaces and what additional spaces we may need to accommodate our students and employees."

SmithGroup last visited campus in June to present results on existing space conditions. Since SmithGroup's last visit, campus partners have had a chance to provide feedback on these results. This feedback will be reflected in the findings presented in October.

Since January, SmithGroup has been working with U of A Facilities Management (FAMA), the Office of the Provost, building executives and other campus partners to analyze how instructional, administrative and research spaces are used by faculty, staff and students. More than 100 buildings were included in the study, and feedback was collected from faculty, staff and students through surveys and virtual stakeholder meetings. In addition, SmithGroup is conducting a benchmark analysis comparing the U of A's space use practices and policies against its peer institutions.

SmithGroup plans to return to campus in January 2025 to summarize all findings from the study, provide recommendations and discuss possible implementation steps.

"As we approach the end of this important study, we want to thank our campus partners and everyone who has been involved in this project," said Natalie Emmons, campus project coordinator and director of strategic academic affairs. "Because of their continued efforts and collaboration, we have robust data on our existing campus spaces as well as an understanding of the future space needs on campus. This data will inform recommendations around campus spaces in line with the 150 Forward Strategic Plan."

For more information on the Campus Space Use Study, contact Emmons at nemmons@uark.edu.

About the University of Arkansas: As Arkansas' flagship institution, the U of A provides an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs. Founded in 1871, the U of A contributes more than $3 billion to Arkansas' economy through the teaching of new knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship and job development, discovery through research and creative activity while also providing training for professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the U of A among the few U.S. colleges and universities with the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the U of A among the top public universities in the nation. See how the U of A works to build a better world at Arkansas Research and Economic Development News.