- FICM Overview
- How to Use
- Table of Contents
- 1. Getting Started
- 2. Basic Database Principles and Applications
- 3. Building Area Measurement
- 4. Space Use Codes
- 5. Data Analysis and Reporting
- 5.1 Comparison and Complexity
- 5.2 Required Data Elements
- 5.3 Optional Data Elements
- 5.4 Optional Building and Space Elements
- 5.5 Building and Space Optional Data Element Discussion
- 5.5.1 Building Ownership Status
- 5.5.2 Estimated Replacement Cost
- 5.5.3 Disabled Access to Buildings
- 5.5.4 Building Condition
- 5.5.5 Space Suitability
- 5.5.6 Room or Space Condition
- 5.5.7 Room or Space Architectural Features
- 5.5.8 Functional Categories
- 5.5.9 Coding for Organizational Unit, Academic Discipline, or Academic Program
- 5.6 Data Analysis and Reporting
- 5.7 Data Element Questions and Answers
- 6. Emerging Issues
- 1. Getting Started
PDF & Related Info5.5.5 Space Suitability
The coding of space suitability is intended to reflect a judgment about how well the design of a space supports the function of the space and the organizational unit to which the space is assigned. This evaluation of space suitability for its assigned use focuses on a different dimension than the coding of building condition, which generally assesses the useful life of a building through the evaluation of structural and building systems. Suitability coding is also different from the coding of space condition, which may assess the need for the space to be repaired, upgraded, or renovated based solely on the physical condition of the space. Assessment of space suitability is not required for the initial task of performing a space inventory.
It is entirely possible that the evaluation of space suitability may reflect an evaluation that seems to conflict with the evaluation of building condition. For example, a space such as a geography class laboratory (see Class Laboratory-210) could be evaluated as satisfactorily suited for its existing use, even though the building in which the space is located could be rated as requiring major remodeling due to the age and condition of utility or structural systems. Conversely, a similar laboratory, being used as an office, located in a building that is in excellent condition, may be rated as having an unsuitable use.
- Definition. The suitability or functionality of the space for its assigned use at the time of the inventory or audit.
- Basis for Classification. The evaluation of a space for functional suitability should be based on the judgment of a departmental representative (rather than the individual user assigned to the space) and the institution’s facility planning or physical plant personnel. Only permanent architectural features and fixed equipment should be considered in rating the space’s suitability; the configuration, age, condition, or amount of movable furniture and equipment should not affect the rating. The rating of space suitability can change significantly from one inventory or audit date to the next if, in the intervening period, the space has been reassigned to a different function or organizational unit, even though no physical alterations have been undertaken.
- Coding. The following categories may be used to designate space suitability.
| Highly Suited, Excellent A | Highly suited or optimally matched to the original design intent and configuration of the space. The architectural features of the space support the use/activity. Appropriate building infrastructure and services are easily and readily available to support the use. | |
| Satisfactory B | Suitable for continued use and provides adequate support for program delivery. Although the space is not optimal for the use, minor modification may be desired to improve the suitability. | |
| Conditional C | Requires limited renovation to support the use on a continued basis. The cost of renovation to optimize program delivery would not exceed 25 percent of the replacement cost of the space. | |
| Development Required D | Requires significant renovation to support the assigned use on a continuing basis. The space significantly inhibits program delivery. The cost of renovations to optimize the fit between the assigned use and the space would range between 25 percent and 50 percent of the replacement cost of the space. | |
| Unsatisfactory F | Is unsatisfactory for the assigned use. Renovating the space to fit the use would not be cost-effective. Renovation costs would exceed 50 percent of the replacement value of the space. | |
| Inappropriate I | Not appropriate for current use but may be appropriate for other uses. It may be appropriate to relocate the activity to another location and use this space for more suitable activity. |