Support key to iS2
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University community support key to iS2 project successBy Kate O’Rourke and Deborah Russ
In her opening address, Dr. Cannon said that while about 110 people are assigned directly to work on the project, each person in the university community must support the project for it to be successful. Many people know that the iS2 Project is working to put in place new processes and systems and improve administrative service delivery. While some attendees at the event said they have not seen any concrete changes yet, project team members indicated they will begin to see changes that will roll out over the next eight months. Dr. Cannon explained that the work will continue well beyond the end of the project. The key to the university’s success lies in continuing to build on the iS2 Project by supporting the culture change needed to bring all parts of the university together as a cohesive unit. The “One university” concept will support a service culture to ensure the University of Calgary is a well-run organization undertaking innovative research while providing excellent undergraduate education. About 260 people attended the interactive trade show-style event. Attendees asked questions to learn more details about the iS2 project and discussed how it will affect their jobs. Along with the iS2 leadership team, the project’s executive sponsors—Jonathan (Jake) Gebert, vice-president (Finance and Services), and Dr. Sandy Murphree, interim deputy provost and vice-provost—were on hand to answer questions and listen to concerns. Ellen Perrault, an instructor from the Faculty of Social Work, appreciated the opportunity to connect with people working on the project. “It's nice to have key people here to talk to and get my questions answered,” she said. “They've taken the time to communicate information to interested people, which shows that they are working to make improvements, not just for change itself. The project team really believes iS2 will create a higher-quality environment for us. The excitement is contagious.” For those who were unable to attend, please visit the iS2 website to watch a video of the day or for additional information. Some attendees indicated the event was busy and they were unable to speak with a team member and get their questions answered. The iS2 Project team needs to hear from you. Please submit any project-related questions or feedback to: is2@ucalgary.ca
One university. One community. One vision.
The iS2 Project is a multi-year strategic initiative designed to improve financial controls and administrative services and create opportunities for cost-savings and greater efficiencies across campus. The project's vision is to build a customer-oriented organization that delivers high quality, efficient and effective administrative services that enable the |
November 12, 2010
