Dr. Blake Faulkner

Harvey, Well done Harvey. Strategic thinking requires being thoughtful of both external and internal factors that need to be considered during the assessment and development of potential options. Can you provide an example of when you have used the process you have outlined regarding strategic thinking? Dr. Blake Faulkner

Dale, Well said. The exciting thing I am seeing in higher education right now is that innovation is accelerating at both a micro and macro level. From innovation in fundamental processes to innovations in how,when, as well as formats that learning is taking place is truly occuring at a rapid rate. Those that are harnessing the power of creativity and innovation in their organizations are truly creating competitive advantage. Dr. Blake Faulkner

Jerry, There is a great book titled "Execution" by Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan that provides good insight into execution of ideas and strategy. If this is a topic of interest I would highly recommend.

Jerry, I think you have hit on a couple of the key aspects of developing a creative environment.I believe creativity and innovation are more essential in higher education now then perhaps ever before as all sectors of higher education are really in the midst of transformative change. Optimizing continuous improvement in student outcomes require this environment as do other areas. Working for managers and leaders with different styles can be challenging but also good opportunity to continue to shape your own management and leadership style and philosophy.

Jesus, It looks like you have a good cycle in place. Dr. Blake Faulkner

Jesus, Do you have a good example of an effective (or ineffective) decision making process you have experienced recently? Dr. Blake Faulkner

Katrena, Good point. Essential to effective decision making is first listening to inputs from the appropriate constituents. This is important both within the group and as you mentioned also across the different levels of the organization. The latter is particularly challenging in larger organizations where communication does not always flow up and back down effectively. What do you think could be done to improve this problem? Dr. Blake Faulkner

Jesus, It looks like your organization has connected departmental action plans to the overall organizational goals and strategies. How often do you review departmental goals and action plans? Dr. Blake Faulkner

Henry , I think you have identified a real important point. Involving people at various levels in the decision making process often results in very sound decisions. Folks closest to students tend to have a keen understanding that is often overlooked. Do you have an example you can share of a time you have done this? Dr. Blake Faulkner

Joseph, Another good point. Keeping in mind the realities of the impact a decision will have when implemented is critically important. Dr. Blake Faulkner