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Campus Scene IN THE SPOTLIGHT HotTips This Month Construction/Renovation Using Job Order Contracts COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES ARE discovering the value that can be achieved by utilizing job order contracts (JOCs) as their preferred method for construction/renovation projects. Many institutions are fi nding that JOCs allow them to get more "bang for their buck" while also reducing or even eliminating costly delays and change orders. A JOC utilizes a unit price book (UPB) method, such as the RSMeans price book, to establish pricing benchmarks that provide a level playing fi eld. JOCs can be extremely effective when correctly implemented; however, it is possible to have a bad experience with JOCs. The key to ensuring a posi- tive experience is in the estimation process. Proper estimating exper- tise is an essential component of a positive JOC experience. UPB It is precisely this level of communication, around previously determined unbiased benchmark pricing, which allows the op- portunity for greater savings and effi ciency. estimating is very different from general estimating techniques. Both the owner and the contractor must have a clear understanding of the scope of work backed up by supporting narrative and solid line-item estimates. In order to ensure a good scope narrative and line-item estimate, it is necessary to include all project stakeholders in the discussion. It is precisely this level of communica- tion, around previously determined unbiased benchmark pricing, which allows the opportunity for greater savings and effi ciency. The JOC approach to construction is becom- ing the preferred method for many institutions so it's imperative to have the necessary processes in place. The importance of the JOC process relies on both the vendor and the owner having adequate knowledge of JOCs. Instilling confi dence in a purchasing cooperative that provides an extra level of support and expertise will assist you in the successful completion of a project. Louanne Shaffer is director, Community and Government Relations, for The Competitive Purchasing Network (TCPN, www.tcpn.org). She can be reached at LShaffer@tcpn.org. { CONT. FROM PAGE 3 } SLCC Opens Solar Training Yard Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) recently celebrated the comple- tion of Utah's only solar photovoltaic (PV) training yard. "The completion of the photovoltaic training yard is an exciting addition to sustainable green energy practice and workforce development in Utah," says SLCC Dean of the School of Professional and Economic Development Karen Gunn. "The new training yard is the fi rst of its kind in the state and will facili- tate Utah's capacity to meet industry demands for highly skilled green energy technicians." The PV training yard is a resource for industry professionals and prospective technicians looking to accelerate their knowledge and skills through hands- on training and curriculum provided by certifi ed instructors from the North American Board of Certifi ed Energy Practitioners. To watch a time-lapse video of the construction for the solar training yard visit http://youtu.be/rUfp_IX13UY. NOW ON WEBCPM.COM Webinars Offered on Sustainable Food Services The National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS) is offering a four-part webinar series featuring leading experts on sustainable technologies for both front- and back-of- the-house food service operations. The sessions will provide information in the same general topic areas that were identi- fi ed as critical categories in the newly created NACUFS Sustainability Awards program, including food waste, kitchen ventilation, and other energy and water conservation best practices. Each session will be held from 4:00 to 5:00 P.M. (EDT/ EST) and will be available in a recorded session after the live presentations. The topics of the four sessions are: The ABCs of Food Waste Management; Advances in Kitchen Ventilation; In- novative Foodservice Technologies; and People, Planet, Profi ts. The webinars are scheduled for October 23 – November 27. For more information, visit www.nacufs. org//index.php/professional-development- distance-learning/webinars. CPM { KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE } FEATURED WHITE PAPERS Window & Door Contribution to Educational Institution Excellence — When designing a new educational facility or renovating an existing space, windows and doors present a golden opportunity to truly differentiate or enhance the project and to accentuate the aesthetics and performance of it. Campus Café or Multipurpose Space — Improved effectiveness begins by understanding that food service spaces are typically used for a wide variety of functions. Research suggests that spaces with high visual intercon- nectedness and various setting types (varying from completely public and open to tucked away and private) encourage interaction and collaboration. Furniture for Active Learning — Active learning spaces can be cre- ated by using fl exible, durable furniture customized to the specifi c needs of each space. This will ensure that the campus becomes an active learning zone, where educators can facilitate students' natural desire to "power up, connect, hang out" and at the same time seamlessly accomplish their educational mission. 8 COLLEGE PLANNING & MANAGEMENT / NOVEMBER 2012 WWW.PLANNING4EDUCATION.COM