Given the ever-increasing speed of change in higher education, JMA understands that – more than ever – schools need both quick fixes and sustainable, strategic, long-term solutions.
Dealing with “urgent pain-points” caused by student or stakeholder experience “friction” or “process failure” may compel leaders to “find quick resolutions,” according to Victor Aluise, Vice President and Dean of the College of Business, Western Governors University in Nurturing Ownership: Balancing Urgency and Long-Term Solutions. But focusing solely on near-term fixes, Aluise argues, does not build a team’s long-term culture of “ownership,” excellent student and stakeholder experience, and/or sustainability.”
Engaging staff – and leaders – to build buy-in and ownership in stainable solutions has always been a cornerstone of JMA’s methodologies. To achieve these goals, we recommend pursuing the following three process improvement (innovation) strategies in 2024.
1. Deep Dive into Root Causes: The Foundation of Sustainable Solutions
Begin your process improvement projects with a clear vision and thorough analysis of the core challenges you, your team, your students, and other stakeholders face. To truly understand root causes, assemble a diverse team of those who deliver and experience the service to foster a collaborative environment and explore where and why challenges come about so you can target the root of the problem – versus addressing the symptom – and create solutions with lasting impact.
2. Beyond Quick Fixes: Fostering a Forward-Thinking Culture
Resist the urge to focus on temporary solutions and short-term Band-Aids. Charge your team with finding solutions to the root cause problems, developing quick wins and medium- and long-term solutions. This will drive the team to create adaptable and sustainable outcomes. Promote a forward-thinking mindset that encourages your team to consider broader solutions that align with your strategic goals and vision.
3. Innovation and Continuous Learning: The Pillars of Transformation
Make innovation and continuous learning the pillars of your culture. Encourage staff creativity and skill development by providing the space for your team to brainstorm novel solutions to improve processes. This will foster a culture of resilience and adaptability. This not only enhances the organization’s capacity to tackle complex problems but also ensures that solutions are robust and adaptable to future changes.
Conclusion
At JMA, our process improvement methodologies balance immediate action with strategic, sustainable outcomes. We don’t just help solve problems; we partner with you and your team to develop new skills, internal capacity, an openness to change – and pathways to a sustainable and successful future for your students and stakeholders.