A Program Statement is a detailed description of the functional requirements, expressed in narrative form, that are to be achieved in a construction project. It is required for each capital improvement project and recommended for many smaller projects as well. It is applicable to new construction, remodeling and renovation projects.

A Program Statement provides the architect with a clearly stated set of the project's functional goals and requirements and gives detailed descriptions of each room or area within a facility. It requires deliberate consideration of each area in a facility, the relationship of each area to the facility as a whole, and the relationship of the project as a whole to other campus and institutional goals and requirements.

The architect uses the Program Statement as the basis for an initial project cost estimate. Once the budget is set, the architect is specifically charged with designing and constructing the facility as described in the Program Statement. Any changes must then be approved by the appropriate University and State agencies.

The space requirements of a project derived from a Program Statement and the budget developed to meet these requirements form the basis of all requests for construction funds submitted to the State of Indiana. Adherence during design and construction to this approved Program Statement assures the University Administration, the Trustees of Indiana University, and the State of Indiana that construction funds are being used effectively and efficiently for the purpose authorized.