SUGGESTIONS FOR MATRIX, ITEM # 5:  USE OF COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS TO PROVIDE INFORMATION TO MAKE DECISIONS

Dimensions of Building US Capacity

Use of communication systems to provide information to make decisions

Does the technology fit the hedgehog concept? If technology is perceived as a medium to enable members of the university community to accomplish primary tasks, then it should facilitate the vision of having a simple, big thing and doing it consistently

What works? (Campus Evidence and Readings)

Evidence:

US webpage organization

Publication of US/committee minutes online

Common meeting calendar (in progress)

Web CT (in progress)

Transparent administration – communication from and listening at the top (in progress?)

Basic infrastructure to communicate is in place

Readings:

What does not work?

Administrative waivers (in progress)

Ineffective communication from US to faculty – why do some faculty still feel excluded?

Communication between US and administration – right hand/left hand disconnect

Tardy communication – by the time constituents offer input, policies may already be decided or at least a firm direction established

Implications for US Bylaws

Focus more on communication issues beyond notice of meetings and dissemination of minutes

Outcomes (What’s the point?)

Provide timely and adequate information to colleagues who are, and who are not, involved in the governance process

Convey information in multiple venues

Develop among members of the university community a clear understanding of how decisions are made – have clear organizational processes easily accessed by faculty, students, administrators and staff

Avoid background noise and communications clutter – consolidate what’s important

Continue working to develop a web portal where policies, etc. may be easily accessed

Use technology to facilitate and enhance communication across the campus and the educational and teaching experience for students and faculty – whether we communicate through a wireless network or with a string and two cans, the goal is to COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY