At the beginning of the process, the stakeholders identified the elements of a vision for the future of the study area. These elements became the Vision Statement for UniverCity Connections. All of the work that followed was guided by this vision of the desired future and the products of this work are intended to bring that vision closer to reality.
The Co-Chairs and Coordinating Committee of UniverCity Connections led this effort beginning in August of 2006. They identified stakeholders, refined the process and schedule, identified the study area, chose the name and logo, and planned the kickoff party. The process followed by the stakeholders was a step by step effort beginning with the development of a vision of the desired future.
The stakeholders, working together identified the elements of their vision and assigned a committee to write the vision statement. Stakeholders assessed the current reality in the area, including identifying the strengths to build on, weaknesses to overcome, opportunities to capture, and threats to avoid.
This preparatory work enabled the stakeholders to identify a manageable number of specific topics to focus on, and to form task groups for each topic. The remainder of the process was carried out by these task groups, mostly working alone, but occasionally coming together to share progress and address overlapping issues.
With the planning work of the task groups finished, the stakeholders brought this phase of their effort to an end. The next phase, implementation of these initiatives, is underway.
The primary steps in this process included:- Organizing - select the stakeholders, refine the strategic planning process
- Assessing the current reality (analyze internal and external factors) strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
- Articulating a common vision of the desired future
- Identifying key issues, the areas where change is needed
- Developing goals and strategies
- Creating detailed action plans
The next steps in the process will include:- Implementing the action plans
- Continuing to convene and be a catalyst for initiatives and ideas