The Ivory Tower Opens Up

Abstract

Harper's University has assigned Peter Murphy to conduct a major change initiative plan to raise the school's competitiveness in the field of higher education. After a referral from a colleague at another institution, Mr. Murphy contacts Ms. Jennifer McSullivan, a consulting professional to assist with the strategic planning of the school's project. A thorough meeting takes place to clarify the key topics that need to be considered, and both Mr. Murphy and Ms. McSullivan agree that leadership, staff and students participation and strategic development are only a few essential topics that need to be addressed. After the gathering of necessary data, a questionnaire is composed and all members of the university are contacted to give their online evaluations, however, only a disappointing amount of people responds, and the case ends with the consulting agent and Mr. Murphy agreeing to collaborate on a new task to improve information and participation strategies in the university's culture.

This case was prepared for inclusion in Sage Business Cases primarily as a basis for classroom discussion or self-study, and is not meant to illustrate either effective or ineffective management styles. Nothing herein shall be deemed to be an endorsement of any kind. This case is for scholarly, educational, or personal use only within your university, and cannot be forwarded outside the university or used for other commercial purposes.

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