The steering group recognises that a range of options exists and it is the responsibility of the institution to identify and implement the most appropriate management arrangements to match its requirements. The steering group will continue to produce reports for HE institutions on the basis of 'by the sector, for the sector', providing information to address management concerns. In turn, the Funding Councils will seek to assess the benefits derived by institutions from the outputs of this initiative. June 1998 Executive Summary Introduction Following wide consultation involving all HE institutions in the UK during 1993, building maintenance was ranked by the sector as one of a range of matters of management concern. This study is the third in a series undertaken as part of the Funding Councils' value for money initiative.
Building maintenance is an essential service in the facilities managed by the institution.
It is important that the management arrangements for such services are structured to meet the agreed core business objectives and requirements identified within the institution's strategic and operational plans. In seeking efficiency gains, management arrangements need to identify and report both benefits and costs. The findings of the 'Building Repairs and Maintenance Study in the Higher Education Sector' readily acknowledge the work already undertaken by institutions in managing planned and reactive maintenance. However, further strategic and operational opportunities, as well as cost benefits, exist for institutions to enhance their existing arrangements for delivering this key support service. The principal messages of the study are as follows.