STRATEGIC PLAN FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES
AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON
D R A F T
comments to chip@umw.edu
SUCCESS FACTORS FOR ACHIEVING STRATEGIC GOALS
The successful achievement of the strategic goals of this plan depends on a set of factors based outside the Department of Information Technologies.
University-wide Support and Ownership
The importance of information technologies in the strategic vision of the University is growing. In the past, information technologies were important only to handful of institutional constituents, but now it is a core component of all aspects of University life and work. Understanding that change and its implications is part of the responsibility of University citizenship. IT departments can provide leadership and tools, but the entire institution must be open to -- and make effective use of -- IT solutions for the University to gain the true value of IT.
Executive Management Support
This plan anticipates and depends on important changes in how technology will be used at the University. Change can be confusing, uncomfortable, and difficult for those affected. Impacts of this plan may include everything from changes in job functions and organizational structures to the timelines and priorities for implementing projects. The University's executive officers can play a key role in helping the institution understand the benefits of strategically using information technology and promoting the changes within their areas of responsibility. Executive management must also communicate information technologies' strategic benefits and support changes within units and across the organization.
- Communication
This plan can only be a helpful tool if it is largely a product of the entire University community that it serves and if it is well understood by that community. Opportunity for input in its development has been widespread, and opportunity for its refinement must stay open through its entire life (see related point below). Although regular communication about any strategic plan can quickly take on the character of a TV commercial that is seen too often, it will be important for all persons who are involved in activities tied to the plan to remind their colleagues of its goals.
Culture Change
Appropriate Staffing
Ongoing Financial Support
Professional Development and Training
The Plan as an Evolving Document