This chapter provides a conceptual model that academic leaders can use to navigate the complex, and often contentious, organizational terrain of academic program development. The model includes concepts related to the institution's external environment, as well as internal organizational structures, cultures, and politics. Drawing from the…

Although interdisciplinary approaches to complex problems are not new to Harvard University (Massachusetts), there is new interest in structured faculty collaboration. Some of the barriers to faculty teamwork are explored, models that enable interaction outside traditional departmental confines are examined, and some ways that other colleges and…

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University undertook a comprehensive organizational development analysis to identify the cultural facilitators and barriers to change and the professional development needs of managers. The results suggested a comprehensive leadership development plan to create a climate for implementation of Total Quality…

During a time of administrative reorganization at the University of Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania), the efforts of a team preparing to implement the Total Quality Management approach were suspended. Problems encountered included flaws in organizational structure, insufficient communication, hidden agendas, deteriorating relationships, limited…

Provides an annotated list of articles on use of teams in higher education, including organizing concepts for effective team-building, administrative strategies and effectiveness, case studies of teams at work, and lessons learned from the business context. (MSE)

Explores the appropriateness of team models and concepts to the academic side of higher education through a case study investigation of the collective functions and processes of a department of business administration in a large public university. Findings are compared to two conceptual models of teams: self-managing teams from industry and…

During the 1980s, a difficult period for many colleges and universities, the University of Michigan was able to respond successfully to changing circumstances. The university has conducted three analyses (costs, staffing, revenue) that have led to recommendations in the areas of organizational cultural change, a quality approach to strategic…

Introduction of the Total Quality Management approach in college administration can create a new awareness of class distinctions among employees and a new demand for respect, dignity, and equity, all essential characteristics of an effective organization. Such employee empowerment has been effective at the University of Rhode Island. (Author/MSE)

The Smeal College of Business Administration at the Pennsylvania State University selected its advising center as the pilot unit for a continuous quality improvement project using Total Quality Management principles. It was found that a quality improvement culture evolves when team practices are carried into the everyday office environment.…