Resource Allocation In British Universities

The ways that British universities allocate their resources are discussed, with attention to different styles, techniques, and decison-making structures. Since the purpose is to describe institutional models of resource allocation, specific universities are not identified by name. After identifying the sources of income and the breakdown of expenditures for United Kingdom universities, attention is directed to procedures for allocating funds for academic purposes, research, central services, premises, furniture and equipment, and central administration. The resource allocation mechanisms used by the government and the University Grants Committee (UGC) are also reviewed, along with the effect of these mechanisms on the universities. In describing the funding of universities since the early 1970s, consideration is given to the universities' adaptation to financial stringency and adjustments to cuts in UCG income that resulted from the July 1981 allocation letters. The market-oriented approach adopted by the Cranfield Institute of Technology is also addressed. Finally, resource allocation procedures in U.S. universities are described and compared to those in Britain, and implications for British practice are considered. (SW)

This book explores the resource allocation process in contemporary private research universities through six richly detailed case studies. It includes an extensive discussion of historical approaches to university resource allocation. The cases are based on in-depth interviews with university presidents, provosts, deans financial officers, and department chairs. The evolution of university resource allocation systems is discussed in relation to institutional history, mission, culture, priorities, leadership, and prevailing financial condition.

In facing the question ‘who runs the universities’, the authors have carried out over a period of years an extensive programme of interviews, both formal and informal, as well as a detailed study of documents. Their findings are written up in the language of politics – in terms of power, authority, influence, regulation and decision making. The result is thus of value both to those with a practical interest in universities and to those with a more theoretical interest in politics or organisational behaviour.

Offers guidance for implementing reforms in the allocation of resources in colleges and universities

This book examines how policy has been made in British higher education and how the results of these policies have determined the shape of higher education.

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