Comparative analysis of user experience with centralized vs. decentralized management of academic computing, administrative computing and telecommunication functions within an institution of higher education

The purpose of this study was to present an analysis of user experience with different management organizations (centralized vs. decentralized) and styles of management. The analysis was accomplished by estimating perceived user satisfaction with the functions performed and recording users opinions of styles.;In the survey respondents were asked to identify whether their school had a centralized organization to manage the functions of computing and communications or a decentralized organization.;In the survey respondents were asked to identify their managers management style choosing between passive, autocratic, democratic, consultative or participative. In addition, respondents were asked to record their satisfaction with: service provided; current and future budget planning; access to resources by faculty, staff and students; staff recruiting and development; and support provided for information technology resources. MANOVA was used to examine the data related to each research question. The results revealed there was no significant difference at the.05 level between the satisfaction produced by the centralized organization or the decentralized organization. However, it was determined that the centralized organization managed by a Chief Information Officer (CIO) received the highest ratings for using the "best" management styles of consultative or participative management.;An implication for future research might include a comparison of departmental and institutional mission statements. This would help determine the correlation, if any, between department mission statements that support the institutions mission and departments that use the "best" management styles.;The sample size consisted of 26 institutions of higher education considered by the researcher to be peer institutions with Ferris State University. The criteria for including an institution in the study was headcount enrollment of student body; state funding for a public school; approximately the same type and number of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs; and campus size and location. Twenty six institutions were selected for inclusion in the study. Survey instruments were sent to the executive management and academic deans of the schools.