The shared service model being implemented for IT, HR, and Compliance & Finance is a key part of the transformation. It involves bringing these departments together, so that they will service the Community College of Vermont, Vermont State University, and the Chancellors office.
A shared service organization is a way of providing administrative and technical services across multiple institutions or units in a way that optimizes quality, consistency, and efficiency. It allows the institutions to focus on their primary mission while still receiving the administrative help they need.
Shared services units gain economies of scale and allow for both more specialized knowledge and capacity in specific technical functions. This leads to better service. The focus is on the processes, systems, and data needed to ensure the intended outcomes are consistent where possible, but unique as required. A strong customer-oriented service culture is also essential. In this case the “customers” are students, faculty, and staff. Shared services will be overseen by a Shared Services Leadership Council and key decisions will be made by the Council of Presidents to assure that the needs of the institutions are being met.
What shared service doesn’t mean is that all services will be virtual or remote. There will still be IT support and HR personnel on campuses. It means that these staff members will have better support and resources, as well as being able to improve their specialized skills, instead of wearing many hats. Not only will this improve service, but it is intended to improve work satisfaction and limit burnout.
