The University of Otago expects to make ''potentially substantial'' savings by reducing the frequency of performance reviews of its departments.
The university council this week voted to reduce the frequency with which it carries out departmental reviews from once every five to seven years to once every 10 years.
Vice-chancellor Prof Harlene Hayne said while it was still not known how much would be saved, it would be a ''potentially substantial'' amount.
At present, about 25 reviews were conducted a year, taking up a large amount of staff resources.
A report tabled at the meeting said ''good departments'' did not need to be reviewed every five to seven years.
Chancellor John Ward said it was important to note the change in policy introduced an ability for extra reviews if there were problems in a department.
