Supporting faculty research through asynchronous online collaboration at Florida Institute of Technology’s Center for Communication Excellence

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of the establishment of the center for communication excellence (CCE) at Florida Institute of Technology. Founded in 2006 to help faculty improve the writing of their professional documents (such as grant proposals), the CCE has evolved from an institutionally funded center exclusively serving faculty authors into a fee-based center serving faculty, institutional clients, and graduate students. Our research suggests that the CCE is unique, and we believe that other institutions can benefit from the establishment of similar centers to support faculty writing. Research is the core of many academic institutions, and by helping faculty shape information more effectively, the CCE promotes and protects the universitypsilas intellectual capital, one of its most valuable resources in an information-based economy. Our paper traces the history of the CCE from its establishment through its first two years of existence. We discuss issues associated with establishing a center, such as obtaining funding, developing organizational processes, and meeting the challenge of heavy demand. We show how collaborating via the Internet proved to be the most beneficial arrangement for our staff and the majority of our clients. Finally, we offer recommendations for others who wish to establish similar centers.