Academic planning systems : the selection and analysis of criteria for departmental staffing and resource allocation

The purpose of this study was to develop and implement a model procedure for the design of an institutionally-tailored planning system to assist in the allocation of faculty positions. The study involved three steps: first, a review of relevant literature to identify current practices and commonly used data elements; second, a verification of the data elements by institutions involved in planning activities; and third, an assessment of the data elements by departmental chairmen and other administrators at the selected institution, Memphis State University.

A four-point scale was used by the chairmen and other administrators to indicate the degree of usefulness of each of the identified data elements in staffing considerations. Analysis of the responses showed significant agreement among the total group of respondents on the rankings of the data elements. Three factors were tested for possible impact on the rankings. These were level of responsibility, college affiliation and departmental size. T There was no significant difference shown in rankings by level of responsibility within the institution. Significant agreement was seen within three colleges, but not within two of the colleges examined. Departmental size was not a consistent determinant of significant agreement or disagreement.

A factor analysis of the responses was used as a guide in format design of a "Planning Profile" for staffing. Subjective responses directed attention to program factors and were a means of individualizing profiles for particular departments.

Inherent in this model procedure were the criteria of effectiveness cited in the literature: simplicity, flexibility and provision for participation of those who use the information in decision-making. Continuing development of the model might include regular reassessment of the data elements, the monitoring of possible areas of disagreement which would require further study, and analysis for format implications.