FAQs
Do these guidelines apply to every college and unit at UCF?
The guidelines apply to the management of all research space occupied and/or utilized by UCF. This includes, but is not limited, to all campuses as well as leased research spaces occupied in areas such as Research Park. The research space utilization rubric is only focused on research lab space and does not include office space related to research.
Why do we need campus-wide research space guidelines?
As UCF continues to pursue its Strategic Plan goals, further growth in research is expected that will require an organized and coordinated process for assessing use of research space. The guidelines and the research space utilization rubric are key to a uniformed approach to research space allocation. These tools will provide data that will assist leadership in identifying space needs to support existing research efforts and attract additional faculty.
How will the research space guidelines be used?
The guidelines are overarching principles and objectives that guide the allocation of research space at UCF. Implementing these guiding principles across the University will support colleges and units as they collaborate with central administration on the efficient use of their existing spaces and seek support for the development of new spaces. While not the deciding factor, these guiding principles will be an important data source to assist in this decision-making process.
Can my college or unit have its own set of research space policies or guidelines?
Yes, in tandem with the campus-wide research space guidelines. UCF's intent is to keep management of research space localized in the units where assessment considering all facets of effective use is best. The guidelines will simply provide overarching principles and objectives that guide the allocation of research space at UCF.
I only conduct research in my office and do not have a dedicated research lab. Do the research space guidelines apply to me?
At this time, the research space guidelines are focused on research lab spaces, not associated support spaces or offices. Decisions around offices, and other workspaces, are guided by
Policy 3-126: Comprehensive Space Management.
How will the research space productivity metrics be used?
The research space utilization rubric evaluates how individual research lab spaces are being used and is not a performance assessment of faculty or associated personnel. Both quantitative and qualitative metrics are needed to make well-informed decisions regarding space allocation, and it will be left up to department leadership to enter this data into the rubric.
Who do I talk to if I have questions about my space assignment?
Please direct your space allocation questions to your department chair or unit director.
Who do I talk to if I have questions about the Research Space Guidelines?