Strategic ICT Toolkit Field Tests - University of York
The University of York is pleased to be taking part in the field tests of the JISC ICT Strategy Toolkit in order to review and improve its current Information Strategy implementation. The University will be field testing the whole of the toolkit in order to assess its overall Information Strategy maturity and identify areas of weakness. The following areas are of particular interest to the University:
1. Governance: There are a number of groups (Information Strategy Group, Information Strategy Executive, Strategic Information Projects Implementation Group, SMT and project teams) that oversee information projects at the University. Staff have observed that there is occasionally overlap or duplication in their remit, which we hope to explore through this project.
2. Communications: ICT projects often, and understandably, focus heavily on addressing technical challenges. This can sometimes lead to the end users (or customers) of the projects not always being adequately informed about the projects, what they will deliver and the benefits that they will provide. The University of York runs a large number (200+) of Information related projects, and we hope that this project will establish good processes for embedding communications within projects.
3. Centralisation: The University of York has a flat structure of just under 30 departments, with a central IT service. Historically some departments have invested large amounts into providing IT services for their staff, researchers and students. This has often led to excellent, specialist provision for users. However, there are also cases where some IT services are replicated locally which could be more efficiently provided centrally. It is hoped that the JISC toolkit will help contribute to reviewing best practise in this area.
The project team will be working with senior management and information staff in order to get a high-level perspective for the project. Following this, we will be creating a set of recommendations for improvement. Through the project we will also be looking to provide an exemplary application of the toolkit and feedback to JISC on its benefits and drawbacks in order to improve it for the benefit of the sector.
Objectives
- To field test the toolkit with senior University managers using a guided interview process
- To analyse and compare results from the toolkit
- Develop and agree a business change definition for the University
- Capture feedback on the toolkit and processes for JISC
Anticipated Outputs and Outcomes
The expected outcomes for the University are:
- Potential of providing more efficient services across the University
- A more uniform, high-quality experience of ICT within the University, replacing inconsistent provision
- Greater clarity for staff in the support arrangements for ICT services
- More efficient decision making for strategic projects
- Improved change management and exception processes
- Greater clarity for staff on accountability and responsibility for the Information Strategy
Expected outputs are:
- A report to JISC providing feedback on the toolkit
- An internal report with proposed recommendations