Build Back Different?

During the past two years the ability to rapidly adapt has been critical to survive and succeed.  Now as we have fully reopened on campus, where do we go from here?  What processes and procedures do we need to implement to provide a safe, equitable and inclusive learning environment that meets the needs of faculty and students?

Prior to COVID-19, the process of a comprehensive upgrade and standardization of classrooms across campus was challenging.  The plan needs to be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the existing technology, problem tracking system, and a pilot program to confirm that the design intent would meet the needs.  However, campus closures, gradual reopening, and different and evolving programming needs has not only lead to a change in designs, but a reevaluation of our entire process.

 A key to continued success was to develop a way to introduce new technology and operationalize the upgrade of these systems on an ongoing basis. However the ability to predict and forecast, which was critical to this decision making and planning, was problematic.  Complicated further by supply chain issues, more conservative budgets and many unknown factors, resiliency of services and ability to operationalize these upgrades is put to the test.

 Although this presentation will focus on the challenges of this current time, the lessons we learned will be applicable broadly to any crisis.  Providing a more agile process and the ability to focus on the issue at hand while preparing for more flexibility and resilience will make a stronger organization.