Zero-based budgeting was instituted in all Texas state-funded agencies in 1975-76, including colleges. The first two years of using this procedure are reviewed and its applicability to higher education institutions is examined in light of the need to consider educational quality as well as costs. (MSE)

The multiple scenario analysis technique for organizational planning used by multinational corporations is adaptable for colleges and universities. Arizona State University launched a futures-based planning project using the Delphi technique and cross-impact analysis to produce three alternative scenarios (stable, turbulent, and chaotic) to expand…

The use of environmental scanning to link the external environment to institutional strategic planning is exemplified in Michigan State University's approach. The university's program is described, and in an appended section, 25 external tendencies are presented and related issues, trends, and events outlined. (MSE)

A rapidly emerging, traditionally Black university--North Carolina Central--examined its goals in a study that shows how the results were used by the institution to improve itself. Reasons for the study, procedures used, and the results are discussed. (Author/LBH)

A historical, incremental method for allocating resources in the Institute for Advanced Studies in recent years is being replaced by a new approach involving the identification of purposes and pursuits and evaluation of their importance. Greater responsiveness to unit needs is the objective. (MSE)

Describes the process of retrenchment at a medium-sized state university (pseudonyms used) for the purpose of analyzing the isomorphic pressures (mimetic, coercive, normative) surfacing during the process and the role played by rationalism in decision-making. Draws on the literature of organizational theory and change, and makes comparisons with…

The adaptation of a typical corporate strategic planning process to a midwestern state university is discussed. The university found that an ongoing planning process with a yearly cycle offers several advantages not available with prior approaches, and that strategic planning is a culture that takes time before it becomes pervasive in any…

The development of a university-wide office automation plan, beginning with a short-range pilot project and a five-year plan for the entire organization with the potential for modular implementation, is described. (MSE)

The three basic strategic objectives any metropolitan university must address in order to build a solid base of alumni support are the characteristics of the current student population, demographics and mindset of the alumni base, and relationships with the surrounding community. Activities at Boise State University (Idaho) in each of these areas…

The imperatives of institutional planning in an environment of scarce resources have brought program evaluation activities under more systematic processes serving varied needs. Evaluation processes at Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Houston are examined. (Author/MSE)

Faculty, department chairs, and deans at California State University at Los Angeles were surveyed for opinions and expectations concerning faculty responsibility and faculty development. Tenured and nontenured faculty responded differently, younger faculty appeared less committed to student service, and discrepancies occurred between faculty and…

This case study examined the dynamics and progress of a committee of faculty and student affairs professionals as they collaborated across a fifteen-month period on the planning and implementation of a residential college at a midwestern regional state university.

Through rapid expansion, some city universities have run out of land. This forces a new approach to campus master planning involving collaboration with the city owning adjacent land. This approach is more politically charged, requires different planning skills, and usually requires consultants. San Jose State University (California) is an example.…

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University undertook a comprehensive organizational development analysis to identify the cultural facilitators and barriers to change and the professional development needs of managers. The results suggested a comprehensive leadership development plan to create a climate for implementation of Total Quality…

The University of Minnesota's response to financial cutbacks due to unexpected reductions in state revenues is discussed. The public higher education system and each state agency submitted alternative retrenchment budgets. The University of Minnesota proposed three approaches for cuts at the 12 percent level: across-the-board reduction; closing…