NIU’s Transition to a Shared Service Model in Information Technology
Introduction to the Shared Service Model
During a recent meeting held at Altgeld Hall, the University Council at Northern Illinois University (NIU) engaged in an in-depth discussion regarding the implementation of a shared service model for the Department of Information Technology (DoIT). This strategic shift is designed to consolidate various departments with similar functions to promote greater efficiency while reducing organizational costs.
Enhancing Efficiency with Consolidation
John Kearsing, a project manager from NIU’s Division of Administration and Finance, presented the model’s objectives during the meeting. “A shared service model establishes hubs of subject matter expertise — encompassing areas like HR, finance, IT, and payroll — that serve the entire organization,” Kearsing explained. By merging these support functions, departments can alleviate the burden of redundant administrative tasks, enabling them to concentrate on their primary missions.
Collaboration with EAB for Implementation
Kearsing also highlighted a significant collaboration with EAB, a firm specializing in education solutions. EAB worked closely with a dedicated group of experts to develop recommendations for adopting the shared service model in NIU’s IT department. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to making informed decisions that benefit the university as a whole.
The Shift in Purchasing Strategy
Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Administration and Finance, George Middlemist, elaborated on the need for improved efficiency within NIU. He noted, “In the previous environment, each department, division, and college would purchase their own computers based on individual budget constraints and employee needs. There was no strategic plan guiding these purchases.”
This lack of cohesion often led to inefficiencies, prompting the drive toward centralizing responsibilities around purchasing, deployment, and inventory control of equipment. By streamlining these processes, NIU aims to enhance security and significantly reduce costs related to equipment management.
The Overview of Equipment Management Restructuring
Aligned with the proposed restructuring, NIU is currently upgrading devices on campus, following the approval of a substantial $1.7 million contract with Dell Technologies. This contract entails acquiring a total of 500 new devices, 83 of which are designated for classroom use. This significant investment is not merely about technology; it represents a step toward building a more integrated and efficient technological infrastructure at NIU.
Future Needs and Funding Considerations
Middlemist also addressed concerns about the adequacy of the current procurement strategy, stating, “We believe that we’re going to actually need more computers. Purchasing 500 devices is not typical for us in a single year.” This acknowledgment indicates a forward-thinking approach aimed at assessing additional funding sources for the fiscal year 2026. Collaborating across departments will be essential in determining the best way to meet future device needs.
Upcoming Discussions
The conversation around the shared service model is set to continue, with the next University Council meeting scheduled for 3 p.m. on November 11 in Altgeld Hall, Room 103. This ongoing dialogue reflects the university’s commitment to enhancing its operational efficiency and providing better services to its faculty, staff, and students. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape the future landscape of NIU’s IT infrastructure significantly.