Managing Minds: The Challenges of Current Research Information Systems for Improving University Performance

This chapter describes the failure of Current Research Information Systems (CRIS) to modernize routine managerial tasks involved in academic administration. It argues that most universities maintain traditional decision-making procedures in regards to hiring, promotions, preparation of annual reports, and submission of portfolios for accreditation and assessment. I argue that developers of CRIS programs failed to appreciate the tasks of academic management. At the same time, management teams seem reluctant to change traditional academic practices. I discuss reasons for this disconnect and suggest ways to close the gap so as to modernize academic decision-making in universities.