Proposal for a governance decision-making model in a Portuguese Public University (PPU)

Abstract

The primary aim of this thesis is to establish principles for a governance decision-making model in a Portuguese Public University (PPU) and for the system which supports it.  The proposed model assumes a comprehensive understanding of how the decision making process is developed in the current context of change within the Portuguese higher education system.

The literature review suggests a management change in the university organization must be based upon a deep understanding of the “invisible glue” which crafts institutional cultures, strengthening traditional values such as collegiality and autonomy in a new entrepreneurial culture.  This change model presumes mechanisms of systematic integration of external evaluation towards continuous improvement according to Total Quality Management models.

In this case study, 30 interviews were performed at two organizational levels (University and Faculties) allowing for the characterization of the current governance model and, most importantly, to propose a governance and decision-making model based upon the critical needs of the strategic decision-makers.

The study of governance and decision-making processes, when applied to PPU, makes evident the critical importance of principles such as collegiality and democratic management.

The proposed governance model, empirically tested and validated, with approximately 2000 quotations structured into 5 levels, for a total of 366 codes, is based upon five integrated and inter-related sub-systems: strategic mission definition, governance, structuring of the decision-making process, decision-making support system and performance assessment systems.

Finally, the model’s external validity was evaluated.  First, in an attempt to evaluate its adequacy regarding TQM criteria a comparative analysis was performed with the Baldridge Education Criteria for Performance Excellence, and verified through a correspondence matrix specifically created with this purpose.  Secondly, the remaining 12 PPU heads of administration were queried regarding the interest of each individual university in light of the model.

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