Planning

Planning

UWS uses a 'nested' approach to planning. That is, the University level plan sets parameters within which divisional, college, school and other plans are located. These more specific plans seek to address the University’s strategic priorities in ways which are both relevant and feasible for local conditions.

The approach to strategic planning at UWS is based on research into what constitutes effective and ineffective practice in the area. The focus is on setting a small number of key strategic directions rather than adopting a cascading, linear approach to planning and implementation.

Endorsed by the Board of Trustees, the electronic ‘plan on a page’ UWS Strategy and Plan 2010-2015: Making the Difference (staff login required) is the cornerstone our strategic planning and it captures our key priorities to 2015 and related key performance indicators.

Implementing

The UWS planning framework continues to follow the PIRI cycle endorsed in the Cycle 1 AUQA audit. However, how this operates has been completely reviewed and a more integrated, efficient and IT-enabled model has now been adopted. A steered engagement approach, consistent with research on effective change in higher education, has been adopted.

Under this approach the overall strategic directions of the University are set, along with aligned KPIs and targets and then local academic and professional units develop linked action plans to implement them. The approach is distinctive because it is IT-enabled and integrates strategic positioning, planning, resourcing, review, monitoring and improvement.