The 157 Group is today publishing an academic research report into the outcomes of last year's shared services project activity funded by the Skills Funding Agency. The projects evaluated included those in colleges and adult education services. The evaluation in the report, which was compiled by the University of Warwick, shows engagement and enthusiasm for innovation but warns of the need for strategic leadership and good communication to encourage success.
Lynne Sedgmore, executive director of the 157 Group said, "There is a wealth of good material now on the shared services projects. We wanted to go further and explore the implications of shared services more strategically. We see that institutions and individuals are enthusiastic about innovation and change. This comes as no surprise to us as we know that colleges are excellent at adapting to changing circumstances in order to achieve their core mission. The report shows that the benefit to learners is at the heart of the shared services work we have supported".
Peter Roberts, chair of the 157 Group and chief executive of Leeds City College, said, "We were delighted to work across not only the college sector but also with the adult and third sectors in this work. The report shows us that leadership and communication is crucial, particularly where the future is uncertain. A clear and realistic vision from the top is most likely to foster commitment."
You can read the report here.