As colleges face growing financial constraints, more institutions are tapping outside companies for academic services to stay competitive. Yet calling this trend what it is — outsourcing — can feel taboo. Leaders often bristle at the word, using terms like “partnerships” instead.
In many cases, this work is collaborative, with an institution and a vendor working together to cultivate a robust relationship. Successful partnerships assure a college can retain control of core academic functions, safeguard student data, or limit institutional liability.
In
The New Learning Partnerships,
Chronicle reporter Taylor Swaak outlines a myriad of strategies for working with outside vendors in effective and responsible ways. The report includes expert insights and survey data, and unpacks how your college can reap the benefits of partnerships while sidestepping the risks.
