Billy is a student at a local university. The institution he attends spans millions of square feet and over one-hundred buildings. Anna’s job is to oversee facility operations at the university, and she has many employees under her like Jason, a janitor, and Donald, a maintenance technician.
While at the university’s library, Billy noticed that one of the second floor men’s restrooms has a broken soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser is jammed — so he goes back to studying with wet, un-soaped hands. However, he says nothing of it; at the moment he has no idea who to inform of the issue, let alone how to let them know, and soon he will forget.
The problem remains unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Anna believes everything is going well on the ground, Jason already cleaned the bathroom (the signature on the clipboard that sits next to the bathroom door is dated that morning to prove), and Donald waits for his next work order.
Notice the issue with this scenario?
Presumably, someone else will notice the same soap and paper towel issue; hopefully they will know how to report it, but when? Until then neither Anna, nor Donald, knows to make the simple fix.
Billy’s day has been altered, so has his experience on campus. Longterm, if this issue and others like it remain unaddressed it can lead to an overall diminished impression of the University.
Later, Billy is in the student center on campus, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that he often frequents. He always uses the set of tables tucked away on the fourth floor the few students visit, so he won’t be bothered.
This specific area never seems to be clean. Billy knows of the clipboard in the bathroom down the hall; he checks it regularly and sees Jason’s signature consistently marked between 10:30 and 10:45 am of that day. It's 11:15 and the bathroom is in an unusual state of disarray. Not to mention, just a few score steps away is that same stain on the floor with an odd aroma of curdled milk.
These are minor details that detract from his experience in this building.
More broadly, these common scenarios can directly impact universities at large. Student enrollment is affected by many factors — notably the following considerations are undeniable:
This is all to say, that as student pools shrink and institutions become evermore competitive facilities must take priority. Scenarios like Billy’s highlighted above can directly dissuade quality candidates from attending a certain institution. Universities with quality facilities and a reputation for promptly addressing maintenance and cleaning issues (work orders) can have a competitive advantage. Conversely, those without may continue to see declines long-term
Beyond attracting quality candidates, universities also must consider how facilities can impact student performance and retention. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s: Overall Second Fall Persistence and Retention Rates by Entering Cohort Year, reports that student persistence and retention rates have remained largely consistent, actually slightly increasing, from 2015 to 2024 (persistence: 75.7% - 77.1%; retention: 66.6% - 69.1%). Of course, that is a promising metric, but increase in retention also relies on facilities.
Like recruitment facilities is often a major factor in a student’s decision to stay in school or leave. Studies show that the condition and quality of campus can directly impact the aforementioned persistence and retention rates. Satisfied students more likely remain at institutions with “comfortable learning [environments] where public spaces and campus accessibility play vital roles.”
Conversely, surveys show that 87% of students believe that the quality of academic facilities were “important or very important” parts of them continuing their education. Often universities on average will experience higher dropout rates when buildings on campus are in poor, outdated condition with subpar ventilation and air quality. The Centers for Facilities Research’s 2008 study showed that 88% of students noticed a lack of focus due directly because of facility cleanliness.
At the end of the day, what does this all stem from?
The friction of work orders.
Change is hard and often unpopular, but is it too foreign to imagine a world where Billy can notice an issue in the bathroom and use his phone to make a report? Simply replacing the clipboard on the door with a QR code would make that possible. With that technology Anna, Donald, Jason, and anybody else is quickly made aware of the issue. Immediately the issue is known, tracked, and being addressed.
One hour later, that QR code is scanned again, it’s Donald confirming that the dispensers are fixed with photo & video evidence. This creates a few breakthroughs. Now, Donald can confirm he fixed the issue, and Anna can see it — she's no longer blind.
Billy then gets an update, hooray he’s helped improve facilities at his school by doing his part and reporting an issue! Plus, instead of potentially days or weeks of waiting, it's done in an hour.
For Jason, he’s very good at his job and always tries to be as thorough as possible, but admittedly he missed the milk stain. Yet, he knows he cleaned that fourth floor bathroom at 10:30 am. He signed and dated that clipboard; he must be in the clear, right?
No, nobody believes the clipboard, it represents nothing at the end of the day. In theory, Jason’s signature is an assurance of completion and quality. Show me the proof. The fact is he can’t. Therefore he can’t protect his claim of completion, nor can Anna because per Billy’s report the restroom was a mess just 45 minutes later.
Conversely, again instead of the piece of paper, the QR code sits on the door that requires photo / video evidence showing the bathroom was cleaned to expected quality at the time of scan. Jason has his proof, Anna can verify it was cleaned, and the data that is being collected points to the mess happening after Jason left.
Where does that all leave us?
The answer and solution is overwhelmingly clear: Gone should be the days of antiquated structures that create incredible friction in the work order process.
Suddenly, the entire operation at this hypothetical university has shifted for the better with very little change. Community members like Billy can easily report problems and have them swiftly solved, managers like Anna know what is going on and can plan accordingly — she won’t have to wonder if things are being completed, and workers like Donald and Jason can prove their work whilst also completing tasks more efficiently.
Sounds like a pretty compelling future.
Billy is a student at a local university. The institution he attends spans millions of square feet and over one-hundred buildings. Anna’s job is to oversee facility operations at the university, and she has many employees under her like Jason, a janitor, and Donald, a maintenance technician.
While at the university’s library, Billy noticed that one of the second floor men’s restrooms has a broken soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser is jammed — so he goes back to studying with wet, un-soaped hands. However, he says nothing of it; at the moment he has no idea who to inform of the issue, let alone how to let them know, and soon he will forget.
The problem remains unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Anna believes everything is going well on the ground, Jason already cleaned the bathroom (the signature on the clipboard that sits next to the bathroom door is dated that morning to prove), and Donald waits for his next work order.
Notice the issue with this scenario?
Presumably, someone else will notice the same soap and paper towel issue; hopefully they will know how to report it, but when? Until then neither Anna, nor Donald, knows to make the simple fix.
Billy’s day has been altered, so has his experience on campus. Longterm, if this issue and others like it remain unaddressed it can lead to an overall diminished impression of the University.
Later, Billy is in the student center on campus, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that he often frequents. He always uses the set of tables tucked away on the fourth floor the few students visit, so he won’t be bothered.
This specific area never seems to be clean. Billy knows of the clipboard in the bathroom down the hall; he checks it regularly and sees Jason’s signature consistently marked between 10:30 and 10:45 am of that day. It's 11:15 and the bathroom is in an unusual state of disarray. Not to mention, just a few score steps away is that same stain on the floor with an odd aroma of curdled milk.
These are minor details that detract from his experience in this building.
More broadly, these common scenarios can directly impact universities at large. Student enrollment is affected by many factors — notably the following considerations are undeniable:
This is all to say, that as student pools shrink and institutions become evermore competitive facilities must take priority. Scenarios like Billy’s highlighted above can directly dissuade quality candidates from attending a certain institution. Universities with quality facilities and a reputation for promptly addressing maintenance and cleaning issues (work orders) can have a competitive advantage. Conversely, those without may continue to see declines long-term
Beyond attracting quality candidates, universities also must consider how facilities can impact student performance and retention. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s: Overall Second Fall Persistence and Retention Rates by Entering Cohort Year, reports that student persistence and retention rates have remained largely consistent, actually slightly increasing, from 2015 to 2024 (persistence: 75.7% - 77.1%; retention: 66.6% - 69.1%). Of course, that is a promising metric, but increase in retention also relies on facilities.
Like recruitment facilities is often a major factor in a student’s decision to stay in school or leave. Studies show that the condition and quality of campus can directly impact the aforementioned persistence and retention rates. Satisfied students more likely remain at institutions with “comfortable learning [environments] where public spaces and campus accessibility play vital roles.”
Conversely, surveys show that 87% of students believe that the quality of academic facilities were “important or very important” parts of them continuing their education. Often universities on average will experience higher dropout rates when buildings on campus are in poor, outdated condition with subpar ventilation and air quality. The Centers for Facilities Research’s 2008 study showed that 88% of students noticed a lack of focus due directly because of facility cleanliness.
At the end of the day, what does this all stem from?
The friction of work orders.
Change is hard and often unpopular, but is it too foreign to imagine a world where Billy can notice an issue in the bathroom and use his phone to make a report? Simply replacing the clipboard on the door with a QR code would make that possible. With that technology Anna, Donald, Jason, and anybody else is quickly made aware of the issue. Immediately the issue is known, tracked, and being addressed.
One hour later, that QR code is scanned again, it’s Donald confirming that the dispensers are fixed with photo & video evidence. This creates a few breakthroughs. Now, Donald can confirm he fixed the issue, and Anna can see it — she's no longer blind.
Billy then gets an update, hooray he’s helped improve facilities at his school by doing his part and reporting an issue! Plus, instead of potentially days or weeks of waiting, it's done in an hour.
For Jason, he’s very good at his job and always tries to be as thorough as possible, but admittedly he missed the milk stain. Yet, he knows he cleaned that fourth floor bathroom at 10:30 am. He signed and dated that clipboard; he must be in the clear, right?
No, nobody believes the clipboard, it represents nothing at the end of the day. In theory, Jason’s signature is an assurance of completion and quality. Show me the proof. The fact is he can’t. Therefore he can’t protect his claim of completion, nor can Anna because per Billy’s report the restroom was a mess just 45 minutes later.
Conversely, again instead of the piece of paper, the QR code sits on the door that requires photo / video evidence showing the bathroom was cleaned to expected quality at the time of scan. Jason has his proof, Anna can verify it was cleaned, and the data that is being collected points to the mess happening after Jason left.
Where does that all leave us?
The answer and solution is overwhelmingly clear: Gone should be the days of antiquated structures that create incredible friction in the work order process.
Suddenly, the entire operation at this hypothetical university has shifted for the better with very little change. Community members like Billy can easily report problems and have them swiftly solved, managers like Anna know what is going on and can plan accordingly — she won’t have to wonder if things are being completed, and workers like Donald and Jason can prove their work whilst also completing tasks more efficiently.
Sounds like a pretty compelling future.
Billy is a student at a local university. The institution he attends spans millions of square feet and over one-hundred buildings. Anna’s job is to oversee facility operations at the university, and she has many employees under her like Jason, a janitor, and Donald, a maintenance technician.
While at the university’s library, Billy noticed that one of the second floor men’s restrooms has a broken soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser is jammed — so he goes back to studying with wet, un-soaped hands. However, he says nothing of it; at the moment he has no idea who to inform of the issue, let alone how to let them know, and soon he will forget.
The problem remains unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Anna believes everything is going well on the ground, Jason already cleaned the bathroom (the signature on the clipboard that sits next to the bathroom door is dated that morning to prove), and Donald waits for his next work order.
Notice the issue with this scenario?
Presumably, someone else will notice the same soap and paper towel issue; hopefully they will know how to report it, but when? Until then neither Anna, nor Donald, knows to make the simple fix.
Billy’s day has been altered, so has his experience on campus. Longterm, if this issue and others like it remain unaddressed it can lead to an overall diminished impression of the University.
Later, Billy is in the student center on campus, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that he often frequents. He always uses the set of tables tucked away on the fourth floor the few students visit, so he won’t be bothered.
This specific area never seems to be clean. Billy knows of the clipboard in the bathroom down the hall; he checks it regularly and sees Jason’s signature consistently marked between 10:30 and 10:45 am of that day. It's 11:15 and the bathroom is in an unusual state of disarray. Not to mention, just a few score steps away is that same stain on the floor with an odd aroma of curdled milk.
These are minor details that detract from his experience in this building.
More broadly, these common scenarios can directly impact universities at large. Student enrollment is affected by many factors — notably the following considerations are undeniable:
This is all to say, that as student pools shrink and institutions become evermore competitive facilities must take priority. Scenarios like Billy’s highlighted above can directly dissuade quality candidates from attending a certain institution. Universities with quality facilities and a reputation for promptly addressing maintenance and cleaning issues (work orders) can have a competitive advantage. Conversely, those without may continue to see declines long-term
Beyond attracting quality candidates, universities also must consider how facilities can impact student performance and retention. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s: Overall Second Fall Persistence and Retention Rates by Entering Cohort Year, reports that student persistence and retention rates have remained largely consistent, actually slightly increasing, from 2015 to 2024 (persistence: 75.7% - 77.1%; retention: 66.6% - 69.1%). Of course, that is a promising metric, but increase in retention also relies on facilities.
Like recruitment facilities is often a major factor in a student’s decision to stay in school or leave. Studies show that the condition and quality of campus can directly impact the aforementioned persistence and retention rates. Satisfied students more likely remain at institutions with “comfortable learning [environments] where public spaces and campus accessibility play vital roles.”
Conversely, surveys show that 87% of students believe that the quality of academic facilities were “important or very important” parts of them continuing their education. Often universities on average will experience higher dropout rates when buildings on campus are in poor, outdated condition with subpar ventilation and air quality. The Centers for Facilities Research’s 2008 study showed that 88% of students noticed a lack of focus due directly because of facility cleanliness.
At the end of the day, what does this all stem from?
The friction of work orders.
Change is hard and often unpopular, but is it too foreign to imagine a world where Billy can notice an issue in the bathroom and use his phone to make a report? Simply replacing the clipboard on the door with a QR code would make that possible. With that technology Anna, Donald, Jason, and anybody else is quickly made aware of the issue. Immediately the issue is known, tracked, and being addressed.
One hour later, that QR code is scanned again, it’s Donald confirming that the dispensers are fixed with photo & video evidence. This creates a few breakthroughs. Now, Donald can confirm he fixed the issue, and Anna can see it — she's no longer blind.
Billy then gets an update, hooray he’s helped improve facilities at his school by doing his part and reporting an issue! Plus, instead of potentially days or weeks of waiting, it's done in an hour.
For Jason, he’s very good at his job and always tries to be as thorough as possible, but admittedly he missed the milk stain. Yet, he knows he cleaned that fourth floor bathroom at 10:30 am. He signed and dated that clipboard; he must be in the clear, right?
No, nobody believes the clipboard, it represents nothing at the end of the day. In theory, Jason’s signature is an assurance of completion and quality. Show me the proof. The fact is he can’t. Therefore he can’t protect his claim of completion, nor can Anna because per Billy’s report the restroom was a mess just 45 minutes later.
Conversely, again instead of the piece of paper, the QR code sits on the door that requires photo / video evidence showing the bathroom was cleaned to expected quality at the time of scan. Jason has his proof, Anna can verify it was cleaned, and the data that is being collected points to the mess happening after Jason left.
Where does that all leave us?
The answer and solution is overwhelmingly clear: Gone should be the days of antiquated structures that create incredible friction in the work order process.
Suddenly, the entire operation at this hypothetical university has shifted for the better with very little change. Community members like Billy can easily report problems and have them swiftly solved, managers like Anna know what is going on and can plan accordingly — she won’t have to wonder if things are being completed, and workers like Donald and Jason can prove their work whilst also completing tasks more efficiently.
Sounds like a pretty compelling future.
Billy is a student at a local university. The institution he attends spans millions of square feet and over one-hundred buildings. Anna’s job is to oversee facility operations at the university, and she has many employees under her like Jason, a janitor, and Donald, a maintenance technician.
While at the university’s library, Billy noticed that one of the second floor men’s restrooms has a broken soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser is jammed — so he goes back to studying with wet, un-soaped hands. However, he says nothing of it; at the moment he has no idea who to inform of the issue, let alone how to let them know, and soon he will forget.
The problem remains unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Anna believes everything is going well on the ground, Jason already cleaned the bathroom (the signature on the clipboard that sits next to the bathroom door is dated that morning to prove), and Donald waits for his next work order.
Notice the issue with this scenario?
Presumably, someone else will notice the same soap and paper towel issue; hopefully they will know how to report it, but when? Until then neither Anna, nor Donald, knows to make the simple fix.
Billy’s day has been altered, so has his experience on campus. Longterm, if this issue and others like it remain unaddressed it can lead to an overall diminished impression of the University.
Later, Billy is in the student center on campus, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that he often frequents. He always uses the set of tables tucked away on the fourth floor the few students visit, so he won’t be bothered.
This specific area never seems to be clean. Billy knows of the clipboard in the bathroom down the hall; he checks it regularly and sees Jason’s signature consistently marked between 10:30 and 10:45 am of that day. It's 11:15 and the bathroom is in an unusual state of disarray. Not to mention, just a few score steps away is that same stain on the floor with an odd aroma of curdled milk.
These are minor details that detract from his experience in this building.
More broadly, these common scenarios can directly impact universities at large. Student enrollment is affected by many factors — notably the following considerations are undeniable:
This is all to say, that as student pools shrink and institutions become evermore competitive facilities must take priority. Scenarios like Billy’s highlighted above can directly dissuade quality candidates from attending a certain institution. Universities with quality facilities and a reputation for promptly addressing maintenance and cleaning issues (work orders) can have a competitive advantage. Conversely, those without may continue to see declines long-term
Beyond attracting quality candidates, universities also must consider how facilities can impact student performance and retention. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s: Overall Second Fall Persistence and Retention Rates by Entering Cohort Year, reports that student persistence and retention rates have remained largely consistent, actually slightly increasing, from 2015 to 2024 (persistence: 75.7% - 77.1%; retention: 66.6% - 69.1%). Of course, that is a promising metric, but increase in retention also relies on facilities.
Like recruitment facilities is often a major factor in a student’s decision to stay in school or leave. Studies show that the condition and quality of campus can directly impact the aforementioned persistence and retention rates. Satisfied students more likely remain at institutions with “comfortable learning [environments] where public spaces and campus accessibility play vital roles.”
Conversely, surveys show that 87% of students believe that the quality of academic facilities were “important or very important” parts of them continuing their education. Often universities on average will experience higher dropout rates when buildings on campus are in poor, outdated condition with subpar ventilation and air quality. The Centers for Facilities Research’s 2008 study showed that 88% of students noticed a lack of focus due directly because of facility cleanliness.
At the end of the day, what does this all stem from?
The friction of work orders.
Change is hard and often unpopular, but is it too foreign to imagine a world where Billy can notice an issue in the bathroom and use his phone to make a report? Simply replacing the clipboard on the door with a QR code would make that possible. With that technology Anna, Donald, Jason, and anybody else is quickly made aware of the issue. Immediately the issue is known, tracked, and being addressed.
One hour later, that QR code is scanned again, it’s Donald confirming that the dispensers are fixed with photo & video evidence. This creates a few breakthroughs. Now, Donald can confirm he fixed the issue, and Anna can see it — she's no longer blind.
Billy then gets an update, hooray he’s helped improve facilities at his school by doing his part and reporting an issue! Plus, instead of potentially days or weeks of waiting, it's done in an hour.
For Jason, he’s very good at his job and always tries to be as thorough as possible, but admittedly he missed the milk stain. Yet, he knows he cleaned that fourth floor bathroom at 10:30 am. He signed and dated that clipboard; he must be in the clear, right?
No, nobody believes the clipboard, it represents nothing at the end of the day. In theory, Jason’s signature is an assurance of completion and quality. Show me the proof. The fact is he can’t. Therefore he can’t protect his claim of completion, nor can Anna because per Billy’s report the restroom was a mess just 45 minutes later.
Conversely, again instead of the piece of paper, the QR code sits on the door that requires photo / video evidence showing the bathroom was cleaned to expected quality at the time of scan. Jason has his proof, Anna can verify it was cleaned, and the data that is being collected points to the mess happening after Jason left.
Where does that all leave us?
The answer and solution is overwhelmingly clear: Gone should be the days of antiquated structures that create incredible friction in the work order process.
Suddenly, the entire operation at this hypothetical university has shifted for the better with very little change. Community members like Billy can easily report problems and have them swiftly solved, managers like Anna know what is going on and can plan accordingly — she won’t have to wonder if things are being completed, and workers like Donald and Jason can prove their work whilst also completing tasks more efficiently.
Sounds like a pretty compelling future.
Billy is a student at a local university. The institution he attends spans millions of square feet and over one-hundred buildings. Anna’s job is to oversee facility operations at the university, and she has many employees under her like Jason, a janitor, and Donald, a maintenance technician.
While at the university’s library, Billy noticed that one of the second floor men’s restrooms has a broken soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser is jammed — so he goes back to studying with wet, un-soaped hands. However, he says nothing of it; at the moment he has no idea who to inform of the issue, let alone how to let them know, and soon he will forget.
The problem remains unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Anna believes everything is going well on the ground, Jason already cleaned the bathroom (the signature on the clipboard that sits next to the bathroom door is dated that morning to prove), and Donald waits for his next work order.
Notice the issue with this scenario?
Presumably, someone else will notice the same soap and paper towel issue; hopefully they will know how to report it, but when? Until then neither Anna, nor Donald, knows to make the simple fix.
Billy’s day has been altered, so has his experience on campus. Longterm, if this issue and others like it remain unaddressed it can lead to an overall diminished impression of the University.
Later, Billy is in the student center on campus, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that he often frequents. He always uses the set of tables tucked away on the fourth floor the few students visit, so he won’t be bothered.
This specific area never seems to be clean. Billy knows of the clipboard in the bathroom down the hall; he checks it regularly and sees Jason’s signature consistently marked between 10:30 and 10:45 am of that day. It's 11:15 and the bathroom is in an unusual state of disarray. Not to mention, just a few score steps away is that same stain on the floor with an odd aroma of curdled milk.
These are minor details that detract from his experience in this building.
More broadly, these common scenarios can directly impact universities at large. Student enrollment is affected by many factors — notably the following considerations are undeniable:
This is all to say, that as student pools shrink and institutions become evermore competitive facilities must take priority. Scenarios like Billy’s highlighted above can directly dissuade quality candidates from attending a certain institution. Universities with quality facilities and a reputation for promptly addressing maintenance and cleaning issues (work orders) can have a competitive advantage. Conversely, those without may continue to see declines long-term
Beyond attracting quality candidates, universities also must consider how facilities can impact student performance and retention. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s: Overall Second Fall Persistence and Retention Rates by Entering Cohort Year, reports that student persistence and retention rates have remained largely consistent, actually slightly increasing, from 2015 to 2024 (persistence: 75.7% - 77.1%; retention: 66.6% - 69.1%). Of course, that is a promising metric, but increase in retention also relies on facilities.
Like recruitment facilities is often a major factor in a student’s decision to stay in school or leave. Studies show that the condition and quality of campus can directly impact the aforementioned persistence and retention rates. Satisfied students more likely remain at institutions with “comfortable learning [environments] where public spaces and campus accessibility play vital roles.”
Conversely, surveys show that 87% of students believe that the quality of academic facilities were “important or very important” parts of them continuing their education. Often universities on average will experience higher dropout rates when buildings on campus are in poor, outdated condition with subpar ventilation and air quality. The Centers for Facilities Research’s 2008 study showed that 88% of students noticed a lack of focus due directly because of facility cleanliness.
At the end of the day, what does this all stem from?
The friction of work orders.
Change is hard and often unpopular, but is it too foreign to imagine a world where Billy can notice an issue in the bathroom and use his phone to make a report? Simply replacing the clipboard on the door with a QR code would make that possible. With that technology Anna, Donald, Jason, and anybody else is quickly made aware of the issue. Immediately the issue is known, tracked, and being addressed.
One hour later, that QR code is scanned again, it’s Donald confirming that the dispensers are fixed with photo & video evidence. This creates a few breakthroughs. Now, Donald can confirm he fixed the issue, and Anna can see it — she's no longer blind.
Billy then gets an update, hooray he’s helped improve facilities at his school by doing his part and reporting an issue! Plus, instead of potentially days or weeks of waiting, it's done in an hour.
For Jason, he’s very good at his job and always tries to be as thorough as possible, but admittedly he missed the milk stain. Yet, he knows he cleaned that fourth floor bathroom at 10:30 am. He signed and dated that clipboard; he must be in the clear, right?
No, nobody believes the clipboard, it represents nothing at the end of the day. In theory, Jason’s signature is an assurance of completion and quality. Show me the proof. The fact is he can’t. Therefore he can’t protect his claim of completion, nor can Anna because per Billy’s report the restroom was a mess just 45 minutes later.
Conversely, again instead of the piece of paper, the QR code sits on the door that requires photo / video evidence showing the bathroom was cleaned to expected quality at the time of scan. Jason has his proof, Anna can verify it was cleaned, and the data that is being collected points to the mess happening after Jason left.
Where does that all leave us?
The answer and solution is overwhelmingly clear: Gone should be the days of antiquated structures that create incredible friction in the work order process.
Suddenly, the entire operation at this hypothetical university has shifted for the better with very little change. Community members like Billy can easily report problems and have them swiftly solved, managers like Anna know what is going on and can plan accordingly — she won’t have to wonder if things are being completed, and workers like Donald and Jason can prove their work whilst also completing tasks more efficiently.
Sounds like a pretty compelling future.
Billy is a student at a local university. The institution he attends spans millions of square feet and over one-hundred buildings. Anna’s job is to oversee facility operations at the university, and she has many employees under her like Jason, a janitor, and Donald, a maintenance technician.
While at the university’s library, Billy noticed that one of the second floor men’s restrooms has a broken soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser is jammed — so he goes back to studying with wet, un-soaped hands. However, he says nothing of it; at the moment he has no idea who to inform of the issue, let alone how to let them know, and soon he will forget.
The problem remains unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Anna believes everything is going well on the ground, Jason already cleaned the bathroom (the signature on the clipboard that sits next to the bathroom door is dated that morning to prove), and Donald waits for his next work order.
Notice the issue with this scenario?
Presumably, someone else will notice the same soap and paper towel issue; hopefully they will know how to report it, but when? Until then neither Anna, nor Donald, knows to make the simple fix.
Billy’s day has been altered, so has his experience on campus. Longterm, if this issue and others like it remain unaddressed it can lead to an overall diminished impression of the University.
Later, Billy is in the student center on campus, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that he often frequents. He always uses the set of tables tucked away on the fourth floor the few students visit, so he won’t be bothered.
This specific area never seems to be clean. Billy knows of the clipboard in the bathroom down the hall; he checks it regularly and sees Jason’s signature consistently marked between 10:30 and 10:45 am of that day. It's 11:15 and the bathroom is in an unusual state of disarray. Not to mention, just a few score steps away is that same stain on the floor with an odd aroma of curdled milk.
These are minor details that detract from his experience in this building.
More broadly, these common scenarios can directly impact universities at large. Student enrollment is affected by many factors — notably the following considerations are undeniable:
This is all to say, that as student pools shrink and institutions become evermore competitive facilities must take priority. Scenarios like Billy’s highlighted above can directly dissuade quality candidates from attending a certain institution. Universities with quality facilities and a reputation for promptly addressing maintenance and cleaning issues (work orders) can have a competitive advantage. Conversely, those without may continue to see declines long-term
Beyond attracting quality candidates, universities also must consider how facilities can impact student performance and retention. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s: Overall Second Fall Persistence and Retention Rates by Entering Cohort Year, reports that student persistence and retention rates have remained largely consistent, actually slightly increasing, from 2015 to 2024 (persistence: 75.7% - 77.1%; retention: 66.6% - 69.1%). Of course, that is a promising metric, but increase in retention also relies on facilities.
Like recruitment facilities is often a major factor in a student’s decision to stay in school or leave. Studies show that the condition and quality of campus can directly impact the aforementioned persistence and retention rates. Satisfied students more likely remain at institutions with “comfortable learning [environments] where public spaces and campus accessibility play vital roles.”
Conversely, surveys show that 87% of students believe that the quality of academic facilities were “important or very important” parts of them continuing their education. Often universities on average will experience higher dropout rates when buildings on campus are in poor, outdated condition with subpar ventilation and air quality. The Centers for Facilities Research’s 2008 study showed that 88% of students noticed a lack of focus due directly because of facility cleanliness.
At the end of the day, what does this all stem from?
The friction of work orders.
Change is hard and often unpopular, but is it too foreign to imagine a world where Billy can notice an issue in the bathroom and use his phone to make a report? Simply replacing the clipboard on the door with a QR code would make that possible. With that technology Anna, Donald, Jason, and anybody else is quickly made aware of the issue. Immediately the issue is known, tracked, and being addressed.
One hour later, that QR code is scanned again, it’s Donald confirming that the dispensers are fixed with photo & video evidence. This creates a few breakthroughs. Now, Donald can confirm he fixed the issue, and Anna can see it — she's no longer blind.
Billy then gets an update, hooray he’s helped improve facilities at his school by doing his part and reporting an issue! Plus, instead of potentially days or weeks of waiting, it's done in an hour.
For Jason, he’s very good at his job and always tries to be as thorough as possible, but admittedly he missed the milk stain. Yet, he knows he cleaned that fourth floor bathroom at 10:30 am. He signed and dated that clipboard; he must be in the clear, right?
No, nobody believes the clipboard, it represents nothing at the end of the day. In theory, Jason’s signature is an assurance of completion and quality. Show me the proof. The fact is he can’t. Therefore he can’t protect his claim of completion, nor can Anna because per Billy’s report the restroom was a mess just 45 minutes later.
Conversely, again instead of the piece of paper, the QR code sits on the door that requires photo / video evidence showing the bathroom was cleaned to expected quality at the time of scan. Jason has his proof, Anna can verify it was cleaned, and the data that is being collected points to the mess happening after Jason left.
Where does that all leave us?
The answer and solution is overwhelmingly clear: Gone should be the days of antiquated structures that create incredible friction in the work order process.
Suddenly, the entire operation at this hypothetical university has shifted for the better with very little change. Community members like Billy can easily report problems and have them swiftly solved, managers like Anna know what is going on and can plan accordingly — she won’t have to wonder if things are being completed, and workers like Donald and Jason can prove their work whilst also completing tasks more efficiently.
Sounds like a pretty compelling future.
Billy is a student at a local university. The institution he attends spans millions of square feet and over one-hundred buildings. Anna’s job is to oversee facility operations at the university, and she has many employees under her like Jason, a janitor, and Donald, a maintenance technician.
While at the university’s library, Billy noticed that one of the second floor men’s restrooms has a broken soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser is jammed — so he goes back to studying with wet, un-soaped hands. However, he says nothing of it; at the moment he has no idea who to inform of the issue, let alone how to let them know, and soon he will forget.
The problem remains unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Anna believes everything is going well on the ground, Jason already cleaned the bathroom (the signature on the clipboard that sits next to the bathroom door is dated that morning to prove), and Donald waits for his next work order.
Notice the issue with this scenario?
Presumably, someone else will notice the same soap and paper towel issue; hopefully they will know how to report it, but when? Until then neither Anna, nor Donald, knows to make the simple fix.
Billy’s day has been altered, so has his experience on campus. Longterm, if this issue and others like it remain unaddressed it can lead to an overall diminished impression of the University.
Later, Billy is in the student center on campus, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that he often frequents. He always uses the set of tables tucked away on the fourth floor the few students visit, so he won’t be bothered.
This specific area never seems to be clean. Billy knows of the clipboard in the bathroom down the hall; he checks it regularly and sees Jason’s signature consistently marked between 10:30 and 10:45 am of that day. It's 11:15 and the bathroom is in an unusual state of disarray. Not to mention, just a few score steps away is that same stain on the floor with an odd aroma of curdled milk.
These are minor details that detract from his experience in this building.
More broadly, these common scenarios can directly impact universities at large. Student enrollment is affected by many factors — notably the following considerations are undeniable:
This is all to say, that as student pools shrink and institutions become evermore competitive facilities must take priority. Scenarios like Billy’s highlighted above can directly dissuade quality candidates from attending a certain institution. Universities with quality facilities and a reputation for promptly addressing maintenance and cleaning issues (work orders) can have a competitive advantage. Conversely, those without may continue to see declines long-term
Beyond attracting quality candidates, universities also must consider how facilities can impact student performance and retention. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s: Overall Second Fall Persistence and Retention Rates by Entering Cohort Year, reports that student persistence and retention rates have remained largely consistent, actually slightly increasing, from 2015 to 2024 (persistence: 75.7% - 77.1%; retention: 66.6% - 69.1%). Of course, that is a promising metric, but increase in retention also relies on facilities.
Like recruitment facilities is often a major factor in a student’s decision to stay in school or leave. Studies show that the condition and quality of campus can directly impact the aforementioned persistence and retention rates. Satisfied students more likely remain at institutions with “comfortable learning [environments] where public spaces and campus accessibility play vital roles.”
Conversely, surveys show that 87% of students believe that the quality of academic facilities were “important or very important” parts of them continuing their education. Often universities on average will experience higher dropout rates when buildings on campus are in poor, outdated condition with subpar ventilation and air quality. The Centers for Facilities Research’s 2008 study showed that 88% of students noticed a lack of focus due directly because of facility cleanliness.
At the end of the day, what does this all stem from?
The friction of work orders.
Change is hard and often unpopular, but is it too foreign to imagine a world where Billy can notice an issue in the bathroom and use his phone to make a report? Simply replacing the clipboard on the door with a QR code would make that possible. With that technology Anna, Donald, Jason, and anybody else is quickly made aware of the issue. Immediately the issue is known, tracked, and being addressed.
One hour later, that QR code is scanned again, it’s Donald confirming that the dispensers are fixed with photo & video evidence. This creates a few breakthroughs. Now, Donald can confirm he fixed the issue, and Anna can see it — she's no longer blind.
Billy then gets an update, hooray he’s helped improve facilities at his school by doing his part and reporting an issue! Plus, instead of potentially days or weeks of waiting, it's done in an hour.
For Jason, he’s very good at his job and always tries to be as thorough as possible, but admittedly he missed the milk stain. Yet, he knows he cleaned that fourth floor bathroom at 10:30 am. He signed and dated that clipboard; he must be in the clear, right?
No, nobody believes the clipboard, it represents nothing at the end of the day. In theory, Jason’s signature is an assurance of completion and quality. Show me the proof. The fact is he can’t. Therefore he can’t protect his claim of completion, nor can Anna because per Billy’s report the restroom was a mess just 45 minutes later.
Conversely, again instead of the piece of paper, the QR code sits on the door that requires photo / video evidence showing the bathroom was cleaned to expected quality at the time of scan. Jason has his proof, Anna can verify it was cleaned, and the data that is being collected points to the mess happening after Jason left.
Where does that all leave us?
The answer and solution is overwhelmingly clear: Gone should be the days of antiquated structures that create incredible friction in the work order process.
Suddenly, the entire operation at this hypothetical university has shifted for the better with very little change. Community members like Billy can easily report problems and have them swiftly solved, managers like Anna know what is going on and can plan accordingly — she won’t have to wonder if things are being completed, and workers like Donald and Jason can prove their work whilst also completing tasks more efficiently.
Sounds like a pretty compelling future.
Billy is a student at a local university. The institution he attends spans millions of square feet and over one-hundred buildings. Anna’s job is to oversee facility operations at the university, and she has many employees under her like Jason, a janitor, and Donald, a maintenance technician.
While at the university’s library, Billy noticed that one of the second floor men’s restrooms has a broken soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser is jammed — so he goes back to studying with wet, un-soaped hands. However, he says nothing of it; at the moment he has no idea who to inform of the issue, let alone how to let them know, and soon he will forget.
The problem remains unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Anna believes everything is going well on the ground, Jason already cleaned the bathroom (the signature on the clipboard that sits next to the bathroom door is dated that morning to prove), and Donald waits for his next work order.
Notice the issue with this scenario?
Presumably, someone else will notice the same soap and paper towel issue; hopefully they will know how to report it, but when? Until then neither Anna, nor Donald, knows to make the simple fix.
Billy’s day has been altered, so has his experience on campus. Longterm, if this issue and others like it remain unaddressed it can lead to an overall diminished impression of the University.
Later, Billy is in the student center on campus, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that he often frequents. He always uses the set of tables tucked away on the fourth floor the few students visit, so he won’t be bothered.
This specific area never seems to be clean. Billy knows of the clipboard in the bathroom down the hall; he checks it regularly and sees Jason’s signature consistently marked between 10:30 and 10:45 am of that day. It's 11:15 and the bathroom is in an unusual state of disarray. Not to mention, just a few score steps away is that same stain on the floor with an odd aroma of curdled milk.
These are minor details that detract from his experience in this building.
More broadly, these common scenarios can directly impact universities at large. Student enrollment is affected by many factors — notably the following considerations are undeniable:
This is all to say, that as student pools shrink and institutions become evermore competitive facilities must take priority. Scenarios like Billy’s highlighted above can directly dissuade quality candidates from attending a certain institution. Universities with quality facilities and a reputation for promptly addressing maintenance and cleaning issues (work orders) can have a competitive advantage. Conversely, those without may continue to see declines long-term
Beyond attracting quality candidates, universities also must consider how facilities can impact student performance and retention. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s: Overall Second Fall Persistence and Retention Rates by Entering Cohort Year, reports that student persistence and retention rates have remained largely consistent, actually slightly increasing, from 2015 to 2024 (persistence: 75.7% - 77.1%; retention: 66.6% - 69.1%). Of course, that is a promising metric, but increase in retention also relies on facilities.
Like recruitment facilities is often a major factor in a student’s decision to stay in school or leave. Studies show that the condition and quality of campus can directly impact the aforementioned persistence and retention rates. Satisfied students more likely remain at institutions with “comfortable learning [environments] where public spaces and campus accessibility play vital roles.”
Conversely, surveys show that 87% of students believe that the quality of academic facilities were “important or very important” parts of them continuing their education. Often universities on average will experience higher dropout rates when buildings on campus are in poor, outdated condition with subpar ventilation and air quality. The Centers for Facilities Research’s 2008 study showed that 88% of students noticed a lack of focus due directly because of facility cleanliness.
At the end of the day, what does this all stem from?
The friction of work orders.
Change is hard and often unpopular, but is it too foreign to imagine a world where Billy can notice an issue in the bathroom and use his phone to make a report? Simply replacing the clipboard on the door with a QR code would make that possible. With that technology Anna, Donald, Jason, and anybody else is quickly made aware of the issue. Immediately the issue is known, tracked, and being addressed.
One hour later, that QR code is scanned again, it’s Donald confirming that the dispensers are fixed with photo & video evidence. This creates a few breakthroughs. Now, Donald can confirm he fixed the issue, and Anna can see it — she's no longer blind.
Billy then gets an update, hooray he’s helped improve facilities at his school by doing his part and reporting an issue! Plus, instead of potentially days or weeks of waiting, it's done in an hour.
For Jason, he’s very good at his job and always tries to be as thorough as possible, but admittedly he missed the milk stain. Yet, he knows he cleaned that fourth floor bathroom at 10:30 am. He signed and dated that clipboard; he must be in the clear, right?
No, nobody believes the clipboard, it represents nothing at the end of the day. In theory, Jason’s signature is an assurance of completion and quality. Show me the proof. The fact is he can’t. Therefore he can’t protect his claim of completion, nor can Anna because per Billy’s report the restroom was a mess just 45 minutes later.
Conversely, again instead of the piece of paper, the QR code sits on the door that requires photo / video evidence showing the bathroom was cleaned to expected quality at the time of scan. Jason has his proof, Anna can verify it was cleaned, and the data that is being collected points to the mess happening after Jason left.
Where does that all leave us?
The answer and solution is overwhelmingly clear: Gone should be the days of antiquated structures that create incredible friction in the work order process.
Suddenly, the entire operation at this hypothetical university has shifted for the better with very little change. Community members like Billy can easily report problems and have them swiftly solved, managers like Anna know what is going on and can plan accordingly — she won’t have to wonder if things are being completed, and workers like Donald and Jason can prove their work whilst also completing tasks more efficiently.
Sounds like a pretty compelling future.

Billy is a student at a local university. The institution he attends spans millions of square feet and over one-hundred buildings. Anna’s job is to oversee facility operations at the university, and she has many employees under her like Jason, a janitor, and Donald, a maintenance technician.
While at the university’s library, Billy noticed that one of the second floor men’s restrooms has a broken soap dispenser and the paper towel dispenser is jammed — so he goes back to studying with wet, un-soaped hands. However, he says nothing of it; at the moment he has no idea who to inform of the issue, let alone how to let them know, and soon he will forget.
The problem remains unaddressed.
Meanwhile, Anna believes everything is going well on the ground, Jason already cleaned the bathroom (the signature on the clipboard that sits next to the bathroom door is dated that morning to prove), and Donald waits for his next work order.
Notice the issue with this scenario?
Presumably, someone else will notice the same soap and paper towel issue; hopefully they will know how to report it, but when? Until then neither Anna, nor Donald, knows to make the simple fix.
Billy’s day has been altered, so has his experience on campus. Longterm, if this issue and others like it remain unaddressed it can lead to an overall diminished impression of the University.
Later, Billy is in the student center on campus, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that he often frequents. He always uses the set of tables tucked away on the fourth floor the few students visit, so he won’t be bothered.
This specific area never seems to be clean. Billy knows of the clipboard in the bathroom down the hall; he checks it regularly and sees Jason’s signature consistently marked between 10:30 and 10:45 am of that day. It's 11:15 and the bathroom is in an unusual state of disarray. Not to mention, just a few score steps away is that same stain on the floor with an odd aroma of curdled milk.
These are minor details that detract from his experience in this building.
More broadly, these common scenarios can directly impact universities at large. Student enrollment is affected by many factors — notably the following considerations are undeniable:
This is all to say, that as student pools shrink and institutions become evermore competitive facilities must take priority. Scenarios like Billy’s highlighted above can directly dissuade quality candidates from attending a certain institution. Universities with quality facilities and a reputation for promptly addressing maintenance and cleaning issues (work orders) can have a competitive advantage. Conversely, those without may continue to see declines long-term
Beyond attracting quality candidates, universities also must consider how facilities can impact student performance and retention. The National Student Clearinghouse Research Center’s: Overall Second Fall Persistence and Retention Rates by Entering Cohort Year, reports that student persistence and retention rates have remained largely consistent, actually slightly increasing, from 2015 to 2024 (persistence: 75.7% - 77.1%; retention: 66.6% - 69.1%). Of course, that is a promising metric, but increase in retention also relies on facilities.
Like recruitment facilities is often a major factor in a student’s decision to stay in school or leave. Studies show that the condition and quality of campus can directly impact the aforementioned persistence and retention rates. Satisfied students more likely remain at institutions with “comfortable learning [environments] where public spaces and campus accessibility play vital roles.”
Conversely, surveys show that 87% of students believe that the quality of academic facilities were “important or very important” parts of them continuing their education. Often universities on average will experience higher dropout rates when buildings on campus are in poor, outdated condition with subpar ventilation and air quality. The Centers for Facilities Research’s 2008 study showed that 88% of students noticed a lack of focus due directly because of facility cleanliness.
At the end of the day, what does this all stem from?
The friction of work orders.
Change is hard and often unpopular, but is it too foreign to imagine a world where Billy can notice an issue in the bathroom and use his phone to make a report? Simply replacing the clipboard on the door with a QR code would make that possible. With that technology Anna, Donald, Jason, and anybody else is quickly made aware of the issue. Immediately the issue is known, tracked, and being addressed.
One hour later, that QR code is scanned again, it’s Donald confirming that the dispensers are fixed with photo & video evidence. This creates a few breakthroughs. Now, Donald can confirm he fixed the issue, and Anna can see it — she's no longer blind.
Billy then gets an update, hooray he’s helped improve facilities at his school by doing his part and reporting an issue! Plus, instead of potentially days or weeks of waiting, it's done in an hour.
For Jason, he’s very good at his job and always tries to be as thorough as possible, but admittedly he missed the milk stain. Yet, he knows he cleaned that fourth floor bathroom at 10:30 am. He signed and dated that clipboard; he must be in the clear, right?
No, nobody believes the clipboard, it represents nothing at the end of the day. In theory, Jason’s signature is an assurance of completion and quality. Show me the proof. The fact is he can’t. Therefore he can’t protect his claim of completion, nor can Anna because per Billy’s report the restroom was a mess just 45 minutes later.
Conversely, again instead of the piece of paper, the QR code sits on the door that requires photo / video evidence showing the bathroom was cleaned to expected quality at the time of scan. Jason has his proof, Anna can verify it was cleaned, and the data that is being collected points to the mess happening after Jason left.
Where does that all leave us?
The answer and solution is overwhelmingly clear: Gone should be the days of antiquated structures that create incredible friction in the work order process.
Suddenly, the entire operation at this hypothetical university has shifted for the better with very little change. Community members like Billy can easily report problems and have them swiftly solved, managers like Anna know what is going on and can plan accordingly — she won’t have to wonder if things are being completed, and workers like Donald and Jason can prove their work whilst also completing tasks more efficiently.
Sounds like a pretty compelling future.