Clemson explores outsourcing of postal operations

Published: November 30, 2010

CLEMSON — Clemson University is considering outsourcing the operations of its student post office and all campus mail services currently managed by the university.

The university has issued a Request for Proposals from potential private-sector partners in an effort to reduce costs, enhance customer service and increase convenience for its postal customers.

Clemson is engaged in a university-wide strategic planning process to establish priorities and strategies for the next decade, and the business services area, like all institutional support units, has been asked to show how it can reduce costs and improve services.

“Pursuing these kinds of strategies will help us focus more resources on our core mission,” said Brent Emerson, director of resource efficiency and process improvement. “The decision to outsource has not been made, but we are soliciting proposals so that we can make a well-informed business decision.”

Clemson does not anticipate layoffs among the 12 current employees if management of postal operations is turned over to a private partner. Clemson has outsourced other service areas in the past, avoiding layoffs through reassignments, early retirement incentives and normal attrition.

University postal customers should experience no interruption of service — only improvements. A recent student survey indicated that customers are reasonably satisfied with the student post office but suggested that more staff during peak hours, shorter lines and quicker notification for parcels would be welcomed.

A team representing the university’s business office, student affairs, academics and other units, will evaluate the proposals.

“We will select a vendor only if we determine the partnership will be a win-win situation,” said Emerson.

END