Workload - interpreting the numbers

[Fred Sturm]

I'm going off in a different direction for a moment. I think it would
be useful to append a short explanatory note to the formula, for the use
of both the techs and any administrators/faculty they might show it to.
This won't be in the form of a draft, just preliminary ideas for what
might be contained in such a statement.

	The numbers generated by the workload formula are useful beyond simply
producing a "recommended workload" and a recommended staffing level.
They can also provide insights into specific needs and long term
planning.
	Each factor (multiplier) will be a number between 0.1 and 2.0 [these
numbers are arbitrary, and should probably be fussed with]. Under the
design of this formula, numbers will generally be fairly close to 1.0
for most factors in most average situations. Numbers 1.2 or above, or
0.8 or below, indicate special circumstances that deserve scrutiny. Some
examples:
1) Under "climate control," numbers under 0.8 indicate conditions that
lead to tuning instability and other deterioration of pianos. Humidity
control in the building is strongly encouraged in these cases.
Alternately, humidity control systems can be installed in individual
pianos. Investment in humidity control is probably the single most cost
effective investment in terms of achieving and maintaining high
standards.
2) Under "condition" and/or "age," low numbers indicate a need to
consider possibly contracting out a fairly large amount of
rebuilding/reconditioning work over the short term, and/or investing in
new pianos. High numbers in these areas indicate a new inventory, which
can be expected to deteriorate over time if plans are not made for
regular replacement. In other words, if staffing is based on these
numbers, without simulataneously committing to a regular program of
replacement, over time the staffing needs will increase and/or quality
will suffer.
3) Under "usage" and "acceptable standards," low numbers will generally
indicate a conservatory or performance oriented situation, while higher
numbers will indicate more of a "general" music department situation. If
this is not the case, low numbers may indicate an inadequate inventory,
while low numbers may indicate more instruments than are necessary.

	As always, comments/suggestions welcome and solicited.
Regards,
Fred Sturm
University of New Mexico