Strategic Planning

Iowa State University developed and published its first strategic plan in 1985; the practice has continued in five-year cycles. Strategic planning across campus originally proceeded in a serial fashion. That is, publication of the University plan was followed by development of college and department plans. The time lag associated with this process resulted in an offset in plans and initiatives that did not optimize cooperation at different levels of the institution. In addition, earlier planning processes, although done by a committee of representatives from various constituencies, did not emphasize broad participation of the University community. Our present strategic plan was developed in an open, inclusive, and iterative manner, which sought broad input and allowed colleges, departments, and units to develop their own plans in parallel.

The charge was given in January 2004 to develop a plan that would:

• Improve the undergraduate experience by strengthening opportunities for high-ability and entrepreneurial-minded students, and increase student involvement in faculty research and scholarship

• Advance academic excellence by strengthening programs that have the potential to be world class, raising more academic programs to top levels nationally, and enhancing graduate education

• Maintain the enrollment base, despite a projected decline in Iowa high school graduates

• Create a more diverse campus that is inviting, welcoming, and supportive of all members of the community

• Adjust to reduced state budget support by sharpening the university's focus

• Determine how Iowa State can best serve Iowans in the future

Previous plans were considerably longer than the current 2005-2010 document and while they were considered to be “good in concept,” they were difficult to use as guides for informing decisions. The current plan lists five major priorities, each with specific goals. Encouraging use of the plan in decision-making and planning at all levels of university administration remains a focus and challenge.