This paper attempts to pursue the centralization-decentralization dilemma. A setting for this discussion is provided by noting some of the uses of terminology, followed by a consideration of inherent difficulties in conceptualizing. (Author)

Develops a model for analyzing the centralized/decentralized nature of decision-making in American colleges and universities. (Author)

Institutions of higher education that have become disenchanted with the traditional ways of organizing student personnel services have begun to seek a new model. This model calls for the creation of a new university office called University Affairs, at least one subunit of which would be student affairs. (Author/WM)

Institutions can capitalize on the ties alumni and friends have to a particular unit of the university. The question of how to organize fund-raising efforts both to take advantage of this loyalty and to get individual units more involved is discussed. Four models are described. (MLW)

Examines under what conditions decentralization of facilities is rational for a client-centered system of service or administration, and under what conditions great centralization is more cost effective. Possible extensions of a simple model are suggested for application to school systems and numerous other organizations. (Author/DN)

Models through which higher education provides outreach include centralized, decentralized, and hybrid. The latter, academically integrated and administratively decentralized, meshes continuing education programs with the academic mission while maximizing cost effectiveness. (SK)

Describes the conflict between the pull toward greater centralization due to the increase in multi-institutional governance systems in community colleges, and the pull toward decentralization in order to make community services responsive to local needs. Presents a management model designed to resolve this conflict. (NHM)

A blended system strikes a balance between centralized and decentralized fund-raising. Fund-raising should concentrate on serving the needs of people, not just on raising dollars. (MLW)

Applied a structural-contingency model to the particular adaptive situation created by Affirmative Action requirements. The model was supported among a sample of small manufacturing firms. Concludes that formalization is the predominant structural characteristic associated with Affirmative Action compliance. (Author)

Used factors identified in the literature as predictors of centralization/decentralization as potential discriminating variables among several decision making configurations in university affiliated professional schools. The model developed from multiple discriminant analysis had reasonable success in classifying correctly only the decentralized…

In many institutions, increasing numbers of offices are becoming involved in institutional research activity. A theoretical perspective, derived from theories of power, information, and change in organizations, is proposed for better understanding this phenomenon. (Author/MLW)

Five models of organizational decision-making are described, and a case study of the rational model as seen in the budget process at Stanford University during the 1970s is presented. Several issues are addressed to help administrators who are interested in increasing the organization's rational decision-making. The five models are as follows: the…

From the monthly Saturday Review supplement, "Education in America, sponsored by the Charles F. Kettering Foundation.

Faculty development in Mexico may have raised teacher productivity, but it has not enabled universities to make the radical changes necessary to improve society. The active involvement of professors is required in the analysis and solution of problems in their communities prior to their participation in modifications of the university. (Author/MLW)

Presents the research model used in the Allan Hancock Joint Community College District, which operates through a part-time institutional researcher guided by an institutional research committee. Discusses the committee's role and the use of research results in policymaking and other areas. Provides examples of research. (DMM)