Unusually hard hit by the 1970s recession, the University of Michigan accumulated more deferred maintenance problems than could be analyzed efficiently either by hand or with existing computer systems. Using an existing microcomputer and a database management software package, the maintenance service developed its own database to support…

Outlining the major areas to be considered when deciding whether or not to computerize physical plant services in higher education institutions, the author points out the shortcomings of manual record keeping systems. He gives five factors to consider when deciding to computerize: (1) time and money, (2) extent of operation, (3) current and future…

A study of the energy usage for 20 St. Cloud (Minnesota) district buildings was completed by a firm of consulting engineers. For each building, the study established a Total Energy Index (TEI) composed of the fuel, electricity, and water consumed during the base line year, fiscal year 1977-78. In addition, the blueprints and any proposed…

Discusses how handheld pen computing devices and specialized software systems can make educational facility assessment more efficient. Explores how these tools can be used for information management and for developing short and long term maintenance and capital improvement plans. (GR)

All 22 papers presented at the 1982 meeting of the Association of Physical Plant Administrators are contained in these proceedings. The papers are organized under four topical areas: resource management, energy management, maintenance programs, and physical plant management. Resource management area papers offer advice on establishing a day…

Describes the following aspects of the State University of New York-Brockport's preventive maintenance computerization project: (1) software selection, (2) project implementation; and (3) problems and benefits of the system. (MCG)

Advises administrators how to develop an energy master plan and how to reduce the usage of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems by means of a time clock, thermostat, and a scheduled preventive maintenance program. (MLF)

The Physical Plant Department at Portland State University (OR) performs accounting, inventory control, and purchasing tasks with a local online system. Using in-house software, this system has replaced and improved upon services formerly provided by the State System of Higher Education. (MCG)

Computerization of custodial services can save school administrators time and money. Four basic reports that should be developed from microcomputer software packages are outlined. (MLF)

Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) programs are used to teach drafting at an Indiana high school. The school system's maintenance department shared use of the software and equipment to produce original drawings of school buildings. (MLF)

Capital resource management seeks the most effective and efficient use of an institution's capital resources for maximum benefit to all programs at the least possible cost. The administrative functions, management tools, and the cyclical process of the system are listed. The use of microcomputers is recommended for data processing. (MLF)

This theme issue describes ways in which educational administrators are successfully automating many of their administrative tasks. Articles focus on student management; office automation, including word processing, databases, and spreadsheets; human resources; support services, including supplies, textbooks, and learning resources; financial…