Most institutions acknowledge the need to modernize their data infrastructure, but leading with technology or policy often results in failed efforts. This workshop presents an alternative: a project-based change management approach that uses visible, high-value data projects to create the desire for change across campus, people, and culture. Shared data governance, foundational architecture, and institutional trust are natural byproducts of functional work that has immediate impact. Rooted in Prosci's ADKAR model, this approach focuses on supporting functional teams with their data needs, allowing governance adoption to follow organically, rather than by mandate. Developed at Denison University, a small liberal arts college, the model reflects liberal arts values: interdisciplinary thinking, adaptability, and resourceful problem-solving, despite resource restraints. The underlying framework is a hybrid "team of teams" that brings together Finance, Institutional Research, and IT, and is scalable to fit any institution’s size and structure. Participants will work through guided exercises using real frameworks and templates from our two-year implementation journey. They will build an institutional playbook during the session, including a stakeholder trust map, a catalyst project plan, and a change management communication plan. In addition to their playbook, participants will leave with a shared digital resource site and a post-workshop peer network for continued collaboration.
Outcomes of this workshop:
Note: Participants who successfully complete this preconference workshop will be eligible to receive an EDUCAUSE microcredential. To earn this digital badge, you must complete a brief workshop evaluation and share two key learning outcomes from your experience. All registered participants will receive an email on October 5 with instructions for completing these steps. Completion of both is required. To learn how to accept and make the most of your microcredential, visit the EDUCAUSE Microcredential website.
