Understanding the distinctions between higher education and corporate shared services is crucial for institutions seeking to optimize their operational efficiency. This session will explore the unique challenges, structures, and cultural nuances that differentiate shared services in higher education from those in the corporate world. Attendees will gain insights into best practices from both sectors and how these can be adapted to enhance shared services within their own institutions. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Analyze the fundamental differences in goals, structures, and stakeholder dynamics between higher education and corporate shared services. 
• Leverage lessons from corporate shared services to innovate and improve practices in higher education settings. 
• Explore strategies for aligning shared services initiatives with the specific needs and values of higher education institutions. 

Shifting to an opt-in shared services model requires more than a compelling pitch — it demands strategy, persistence, and proof of value. This session showcases a real-world case study on how one institution successfully designed, launched, and sustained an opt-in model for shared services. Attendees will learn how to demonstrate value, foster stakeholder trust, and ensure ongoing participation. Gain insights into the critical levers that sustain momentum and drive continuous engagement. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Discover techniques for showcasing value and driving initial adoption. 
• Learn methods for maintaining participation and ensuring long-term buy-in. 
• Explore governance structures that support ongoing stakeholder alignment.  

Henry Velez

Vice President Business Services for Institutional Planning and Operations
Rutgers University

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Navigating limited budgets is a reality for shared services teams aiming to deliver value while managing costs. This panel brings together leaders from diverse institutions to share practical strategies for maximizing resources, prioritizing initiatives, and achieving measurable results despite financial constraints. Attendees will gain actionable insights into creative cost-saving measures, leveraging technology for efficiency, and fostering collaboration to stretch resources further. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Identify cost-saving strategies that enhance efficiency without compromising service quality. 
• Leverage technology and collaboration to optimize resources and reduce operational expenses. 
• Prioritize high-impact initiatives to ensure alignment with institutional goals and measurable outcomes. 

As generative AI and tools like ChatGPT become increasingly integrated into educational environments, understanding their real impact is crucial for institutions. This session will explore the transformative potential of these technologies in enhancing operational efficiency, improving student engagement, and streamlining administrative processes. Attendees will gain insights into practical applications, potential challenges, and strategies for successfully implementing generative AI solutions within their shared services framework. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Identify specific use cases for generative AI and ChatGPT in Higher Education including administrative support, student services, and data analysis. 
• Learn about the ethical considerations and challenges associated with implementing AI technologies in an academic setting. 
• Explore best practices for integrating AI tools into existing workflows to maximize their benefits while ensuring user acceptance and training. 

Data-driven decision making is essential for driving impactful change in shared services. This session will explore how institutions can leverage data analytics to inform strategic decisions, enhance service delivery, and optimize resource allocation. Participants will learn about the tools and techniques necessary for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data effectively, enabling them to make informed decisions that align with institutional goals and drive measurable outcomes. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Establish methods for creating a robust data collection framework that supports informed decision making across shared services. 
• Analyze and interpret data to identify trends and insights that can lead to strategic improvements in service delivery. 
• Explore practical examples of data-driven initiatives that have resulted in significant business impacts. 

In an increasingly digital world, creating a comprehensive digital roadmap is vital for the successful implementation of shared services. This session will guide attendees through the process of developing a strategic plan that aligns technology initiatives with institutional goals. Participants will learn how to assess current capabilities, identify gaps, and outline actionable steps for integrating digital tools and processes that enhance service delivery and improve operational efficiency. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Understand the key components of an effective digital roadmap and how to tailor it to the unique needs of your institution's shared services. 
• Conduct thorough assessment techniques of existing technologies and processes to inform your digital strategy. 
• Explore methods for fostering stakeholder engagement throughout the roadmap development process to ensure buy-in and successful implementation. 

Navigating regulatory changes is a constant challenge, especially in an industry known for its reliance on tradition and reluctance to change. This session will showcase how the University of Arkansas Global Campus rose to regulatory challenges by adopting a shared services approach. Proactive adjustments in policies and practices allowed the department to increase its level of service to the campus while meeting a higher regulatory burden. Attendees will learn about the software's design, implementation, and the collaborative efforts that drove its success, highlighting the importance of agility in maintaining compliance and operational efficiency in a dynamic regulatory environment.  

Key Takeaways:  

• Discover the key features of the University of Arkansas’ grassroots software and how it streamlines the process of complying with regulatory changes.  
• Hear the collaborative approach taken to develop and implement this solution, fostering a culture of shared responsibility and proactive engagement.  
•  Explore a case study in leveraging increased regulatory demands to build momentum for technology innovation. 

Eve Canty

Director of Special Projects and Innovation - Global Campus
University of Arkansas

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As the landscape of shared services continues to evolve, adopting a proactive approach to the future of work is essential for shared services. This panel discussion brings together thought leaders to explore emerging trends, workforce expectations, and technological advancements that will shape the next generation of work environments. Attendees will gain insights into strategies for fostering adaptability, enhancing employee engagement, and preparing their institutions to thrive in an ever-changing landscape. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Highlight key trends shaping the future of work in and how they impact shared services operations. 
• Learn strategies for creating a flexible work environment that meets the evolving needs of both employees and institutional goals. 
• Explore best practices for implementing proactive workforce planning and development initiatives that enhance organizational resilience.