Universities have multiple facilities that host tens of thousands of students each day. These facilities include libraries, classrooms, gyms, and labs. Most of these facilities, however, have outgrown the purposes they were built for.
Modern universities are now utilizing space as a service, where students can not only go to learn and study, but to also get coffee, get their computers fixed, or use special technology. Because universities are driving students to these facilities, the expected occupancy load for these facilities increases significantly.
Balancing occupancy load and maintaining a clean, safe space for students has become a challenge for universities that just can’t keep up. Most universities still implement fragmented systems with work orders, energy usage, and space utilization all under different platforms. Having everything under a centralized system allows teams to move from reactive to predictive, with the ability to identify patterns in data and prevent downtime. Occupancy data should be used to adjust cleaning schedules rather than relying on basic, outdated routines.
Labor utilization is another key factor. Teams are stretched thin, and turnover can be high. Streamlining processes and introducing technology like smart sensors and autonomous cleaning equipment can improve consistency and efficiency, freeing up staff for work that only humans can handle.
Partnerships also matter. Outsourcing cleaning services, groundskeeping, and catering under one specialized vendor allows universities to scale. Vendors offer expertise and tailored solutions that are unique to you.
Maintaining a clean, safe, and comfortable space for students and staff impacts the student experience. A better experience can correlate to higher retention rates and higher enrollment.
HHS helps universities do just that. By implementing Peppermint autonomous cleaning robots and TESS, or Technology Enabled Support Services, on campuses, universities are able to force multiply and have everything under a centralized system.
Implementing Peppermint Robotics customized cleaning solutions allows you to navigate staffing concerns, keep costs low, and ensure the safety of patients, guests, and staff.
Peppermint autonomous robots are engineered for real-world performance and adaptability. Each robot features a dynamic safety detection system and intelligent sensors to avoid obstacles like stairs, walls, desks, and people. Operators require minimal training—They need to be able to empty water, refill cleaning solutions, and bring the robot to the start of a cleaning path.
To enhance operations, the Peppermint Dashboard allows you to manage individual robots and your entire fleet, providing access to real-time data and the ability to solve issues as they arise.
TESS is HHS’ suite of advanced technology tools designed to enhance facility support services by improving efficiency, optimizing resources, and reducing costs. TESS is customizable for each facility, allowing teams to automate routine tasks with Peppermint robotics and free up time for customer interactions.
TESS also tracks performance through compliance metrics and customer feedback, enabling proactive improvements. Real-time data and transparent dashboards help with informed decision-making with full visibility into operations and financials.
In addition, TRAX SmartRestrooms improve operational efficiency and guest experiences through the power of data analytics. Keeping up with high-traffic facilities can be a challenge. These SmartRestrooms utilize smart sensors on things like soap dispensers, towel dispensers, and trash bins, so teams know when these items need to be replenished. Guest feedback tablets also provide improvement opportunities for enhanced guest experience.
See how HHS helps universities build smarter facilities programs.