In its work with campuses, the CO Team will utilize a methodology of careful planning, data-driven target identification, analysis of outcome metrics, consistent routines, and frequent updates to project plans. This approach includes identifying targets with measurable goals, creating plans which are used to manage delivery towards our goals, setting key milestones and trajectories, and focusing on problem-solving and corrective action where necessary along the way.
Critical elements include emphasizing the importance of getting started, even if we do not have all the answers, learning along the way, and developing a culture of graduation. This includes creating strategically focused and tactically supported “living project plans,” calling for accountability, measuring results, and changing course as needed. Necessary components include:
- Ensuring campus leadership (Presidents and Provosts) support
- Generating momentum and building routines to maintain accountability and focus
- Communicating with stakeholders
- Using data where possible while acknowledging that many aspects of this initiative may be more art than science
- Developing accountability through measuring outcomes; analyzing and documenting success based on pre-agreed upon metrics
This approach to help drive progress and deliver results requires us to continuously and rigorously answer the following questions:
- What are we trying to do?
- How are we planning to do it?
- At any given moment, how will we know we are on track? How do we know if we are succeeding?
- If not, what are we going to do about it? How will we change things?
- How can the CO Team help?
In pursuit of our goals, we will embrace the following guiding principles:
- Strongly promote campus-based decision making
- Be highly inclusive in developing strategies for system-wide programs and policies
- Work with campuses to make data-driven decisions whenever possible
- Be uncompromising regarding quality. Real student success means a complete degree, with the full set of intellectual tools demanded by 21st century work and life
- Support activities with positive impact