The Space Planning Office maintains the University of Waterloo’s official space inventory, supporting accurate reporting, analysis, and planning across the institution.
Space data is used to understand how space is allocated and utilized, inform decision-making, and support both institutional and provincial reporting requirements.
How space data is managed
Space information is maintained within Archibus and reflects the University’s physical inventory at the room level.
This includes:
- Room use and functional classification
- Departmental assignments
- Space measurements and attributes
- Building and floor-level organization
Maintaining accurate and up-to-date space data ensures consistency across reporting and supports reliable analysis.
Classification and standards
Space at Waterloo is classified using standardized definitions to ensure consistency across campus.
This approach is supported by two complementary frameworks:
- COU Space Standards
Provide the provincial framework used to support consistent reporting across Ontario universities - UW Room Standards
Provide detailed, room-level classifications used to define the specific function and use of space at UW
Together, these standards ensure that space is both:
- aligned with provincial reporting requirements
- detailed enough to support institutional needs and analysis
Reporting and analysis
Space data supports a range of reporting and analytical needs, including:
- Institutional reporting and internal analysis
- Space allocation and utilization reviews
- Support for planning and project coordination
- Provincial reporting, including the COU Triennial Inventory of Physical Space