COVID Response: A Blended Approach to Studying Sanitizer Station Deployment at a Large Public University

Abstract

We present a blended approach to integrate qualitative human factors and quantitative operations research modeling to understand how Clemson University adapted to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. We focus primarily on the strategic deployment of hand sanitizer stations to reduce transmission of the virus. We identify key adaptations and effective coordination amongst various departments during the crisis. We describe how the qualitative data influenced our development of a discrete facility location covering model and use the model to select optimal locations for dispenser stations. Future plans include further model development, providing model-informed redeployment recommendations in preparation for the Fall 2021 semester, and tactical planning. The blended approach can be broadly applied to understand and improve resiliency decisions in other contexts.