AUTM initiated its first-ever comprehensive strategic planning initiative at its January Board meeting. AUTM is committed to engaging our members in this process because strategic planning is not a “top-down” process, but a process and a plan that is informed by its members and past experiences. A strategic plan is a living document that will allow AUTM to allocate resources in those areas that are identified as important and that fit within the core mission, goals and objectives.
So, why is a strategic plan important to AUTM? In the last few decades, AUTM and its membership have grown and diversified, and there are more demands on its resources. AUTM is participating in policy issues with other organization both in the United States and internationally, providing career and professional development opportunities, developing ties with organizations globally, and ensuring that we effectively communicate with members.
On May 1 we brought together a group of more than 45 members representing international, business, provider, academic and research institutions at a meeting in Chicago to help craft the elements of our strategic plan. In fact, “global” was a central theme in these discussions. We also established the core purpose and values for AUTM and wrote a BHAG – a big hairy audacious goal – which we will have achieved if we attain all of the goals and objectives of our strategic plan.
Samples of the issues that this group identified are listed below (for a more details on the strategic plan, visit the strategic plan page):
· How will AUTM increase awareness of and respect for the value of academic technology transfer?
· What does AUTM need to do to become THE branded thought leader on technology transfer throughout the world?
· How does AUTM promote the movement of research breakthroughs out of the universities and into the larger society?
I want to thank the board, staff and committee members who took time out of their busy lives to come to Chicago and engage in the process of shaping AUTM’s future. We accomplished a lot, but there is more to be done. As we continue the process, AUTM is committed to seeking ideas from our members.
In the next few weeks, we hope to create the draft goals, objectives and strategies that will enable us to achieve our BHAG. As with the core purpose, values and BHAG, we welcome your input and will provide a survey mechanism for feedback.
Let us know what you think. Or click on the link to the committee members and email them directly with your ideas.