Architecting change from the inside out

In the world of higher education technology services, we find ourselves entwined with change. Our role is usually imparting change on other members of the campus community. New systems, new software, and new instructional tools abound. We hand out change to others, however do we embrace it ourselves? How often do we internally review ourselves? Is our IT department or unit functioning cohesively? Are our employees empowered adequately to expand the boundaries and achieve results? Is management sharing the power? Do we celebrate successes? Do we really understand employee morale? Do contented cows truly give better milk.This paper focuses on the fundamental strategies that University departments should employ year round for continuous improvement. Some of these elements are 1) creating a better work place; 2) hiring to fit; 3) facilitating good employee morale; 4) equipping employees for customer service; 5) communicating priorities; and 6) leading for loyalty. The IT department that architects change from the inside out will realize many benefits.