The planning and implementation of a computerized management information system at a fictional small college is described. Nine key points are made regarding department involvement, centralization, gradual program implementation, lowering costs, system documentation, and upper-level administrative support. (MSE)

It is the president's job to point out, remind, persuade, suggest new ideas, and identify places where improvement is needed or the operation is not yet satisfactory. Knowing when to accept the presidency, what to do while there, and when to leave are important job aspects. (MSE)

Management by objectives (MBO), a participative management process, is discussed with specific reference to helping small colleges deal with enrollment and financial decline. Recommendations for implementation of MBO and some common pitfalls to be avoided are included. (BH)

Characteristics of small college administration as it applies to the future are described. Consideration is given to the process for anticipating change in the circumstances surrounding colleges, identifying opportunities, and planning to take advantage of positive changes in the environment (i.e., future focused planning). The use of the Planning…

In order to attract strong faculty members, many of whom may not realize initially the distinctive strengths of small colleges, small schools need to work hard and plan well to recruit and hire qualified faculty in communication and theatre. A search and screen process which presents an accurate and attractive picture of the small college is an…

This guide offers sample administrative procedures and policies that can be used by small colleges and universities to prepare or revise administrative procedures manuals. The sample procedures and policies offered here have been compiled from a review of many manuals from many different institutions, and vary from the general to the specific.…

A set of standards to help small college advancement managers measure and justify the advancement processes they pursue are provided. The framework includes five sections: institutional commitment, authority and organizational structure, personnel resources, advancement activities and functions, and evaluation. (MLW)

Presents a systematic approach for small colleges to plan effectively for the acquisition of information resources, i.e., computers and telecommunications, based on five recommendations: (1) assign task force to assess needs; (2) establish institutional goals; (3) identify the technology required to meet the goals; (4) determine financial…

Designed for new consultants or those who will be employing them, this manual focuses on principles of consultation and the use and training of consultants in colleges and universities. The role and functions of a consultant, the consulting process (from introductory to exiting stages), and three models of consultation are presented in the first…

A relatively simple method for self-assessment of the financial condition of small independent colleges is presented. The workbook is intended to assist trustees, presidents, and business officers in small independent colleges in evaluating their institution's financial condition. A check list of necessary evaluations and a guide for interpreting…

Large and small businesses have long financed capital projects through tax-exempt financing. Colleges that need large sums of money to retrofit campuses with energy-efficient equipment can achieve the lowest borrowing cost available through bond insurance. (Author/MSE)

Associations can provide information, expertise, and services that individual institutions do not always possess. Although membership in some associations is a necessity, it is important to choose carefully among others to gain optimal resources such as information, meetings, newsletters, and other points of contact. Some guidelines are provided.…

This first in a series of problem-solving exercises challenges readers to examine a small college faced with declining enrollment, decreasing financial support, and industrial pollution. Background information is provided and includes enrollment trends, finances, and characteristics of the administrators, faculty, students, and trustees.…

Advice for stretching the capacity of the small college public relations office includes planning well; using strategy; searching out creative ideas; choosing quality over quantity in press releases; using student and volunteer workers; developing strong media relations; accepting advice; and anticipating problems. (MSE)

A case study of financial turnaround at the highly specialized New England Conservatory of Music describes five strategies to balance costs and resources within the framework of the school's objectives. Areas of cost minimizing and revenue maximizing are outlined and discussed. (MSE)