At the University of Miami, a monthly written report assesses the status of about 120 measures of institutional effectiveness, with an oral report to administrators focusing on a smaller number of currently crucial organizational characteristics. The reports, kept confidential, help administrators monitor organizational progress. (MSE)

It is noted that "undervalued metropolitan universities," which generally have open enrollment, low tuition, and a large proportion of nontraditional students, often also have a diffuse and unclear public image. A model positioning concept for these institutions, used by Wright State University (Ohio) is proposed and described. (MSE)

Two case studies, a study of retention of health care personnel and a study of internal organizational communication, are presented that illustrate the application of multidimensional unfolding (MDU) and mapping to organizational concerns. This approach to multivariate analysis allows clients and stakeholders to picture the results of complex…

Discusses the importance of library systems administrators addressing the Year 2000 problem in their libraries. Reviews Web-based resources that deal with understanding the problem, offer vendor statements about their products, and discuss how some libraries are preparing for the Year 2000 problem. (AEF)

Contrasts the roles of performance technologists and other performance improvement specialists. Provides a matrix of strategies and tactics that performance technologists should be familiar with. Identifies regulations that can affect implementation of tactics, including EEO/affirmative action guidelines; employee safety and health laws,…

The approach taken by one academic health center, Allegheny Health, Education and Research Foundation (Pennsylvania), to changes in the economics of health care is described. The foundation is cultivating a more responsive organization, reengineering operations, and securing its revenue base in a variety of ways. Statistics are provided to…

Criticizes "technologically deterministic" approaches, which seek to extrapolate social change from technological potential. Shows how a three-layer model of component, system, and application technologies can be used to integrate findings from the use and development of technology in specific sectors. Examines three cases of…

Describes ways in which professional development activities can be rewarding. Offers details from a support staff event at Wytheville Community College in Virginia as a template for a successful event. Focuses on planning, instruction, humor, camaraderie, and appreciation. (NB)

The "Teaching/Learning Project" at Miami-Dade Community College (Florida), a process of dramatic institution-wide change, is described, focusing on the leadership, collaboration, and coordination required to bring about desired changes. Examination of leadership roles include those of the change agent (project director), champion…

Presents exploratory individual, group, and organizational learning instructional systems development (ISD) models based on four conditions: integration of the questions of what and why in instruction and learning; reflection of impacts of environmental factors; non-linear and flexible instructional processes; and future-centeredness in…

Provides a list of potential strategies and tactics for improving the performance of individuals, groups, and organizations. The performance technologist must be able to integrate these strategies to be successful. Lists and describes 20 categories/interventions. The process of performance technology is discussed, as well as tips for mastering…

The main purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the relationship between certain learning organization characteristics and change adaptation, innovation, and bottom-line organizational performance. The following learning organization characteristics were found to be the strongest predictors of rapid change adaptation, quick product or…

This chapter proposes a conceptual framework for understanding influences on faculty work and for conducting research about individual, organizational, and epistemological factors that may shape faculty members' engagement in public scholarship. (Contains 1 figure.)

The hidden dimensions of leadership and of the costs associated with the implementation of new information systems should be carefully considered. They can help determine the short- and long-term success of new systems.

The processes for choosing, preparing, and supporting facilitators for faculty learning communities are as unique as the campuses housing them. This chapter reports on a range of activities and highlights three preparation programs. The following are appended: (1) Goals Inventory for Faculty Learning Community; and (2) Planning Inventory for…