Space Productivity Metrics Toolkit

Poor space usage is a persistent challenge for higher education institutions, with leaders reporting office utilization rates of less than 20%, for example. Unused space is costly, as utilities, maintenance, and operations represent 35-40% of a building’s lifetime expenses, and institutions must cover these costs even as space remains underused.

• Inefficient space utilization can lead to unnecessary new construction costs. One university estimated that redeploying just 2% of its 7.5 million square feet would avoid $45 million in construction costs.