Input wanted for Refining Directions implementation plan

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/refining_directions.jpg” caption=”Refining Directions document cover”]A discussion document for the implementation of McMaster's strategic plan, Refining Directions, is now online.

Project co-ordinator and engineering professor Andy Hrymak says, “Our goal was to develop an implementation plan that would clearly link planning in faculties and other areas of campus with the goals, targets and critical success factors in Refining Directions. We also wanted to identify recommendations to the University Planning Committee on how to move the University closer to its strategic objectives.”

Those recommendations include:

• Proposals that will lead to growth in undergraduate or graduate student numbers should automatically trigger a review to identify resource requirements for non-academic areas such as physical plant, library resources, etc.
• A common planning reporting format to be used by the University Planning Committee to support an effective interchange of information and monitoring of plans
• Priority being given to support graduate programs that are capable of immediate growth in student numbers

A recommended list of performance indicators that reflect the Refining Directions goals is also included along with a review of faculty and unit initiatives that are either underway or planned.

“The implementation plan will be an important part of the success of Refining Directions and our ability to make strategic moves forward,” says President Peter George. “We want to hear what people think of the plan and any recommendations to make sure they are as effective as possible.”

The discussion document is available at http://www.mcmaster.ca/pres/refining/implement.cfm.

Comments should be sent to refining@mcmaster.ca before Dec. 7, 2004.