Fundraising efforts will help make the expansions possible, as will a self-funded program emphasis, but additional state funds are critical to the future of these programs. The proposal was developed with the assistance of the Office of Policy and Management and the Offices of the State Comptroller and State Treasurer. The new structure was put in place July 1, 1996. The University has also worked with the State Comptroller to effect significant savings in workers' compensation and fringe benefit overcharges. The focus is a comprehensive approach to the allocation and management of financial and personnel resources which will maximize flexibility and accountability while encouraging decentralized decision-making.
Entrepreneurial behavior is rewarded, as is managerial responsibility.
The implementation of the allocation model, currently underway, is intended to provide managers with the incentive to make maximum use of their allocated resources to promote academic excellence without artificial constraints. It is important to note that the new resource allocation model has converted UConn's system from a strict position control structure to a system based solely on dollars. Thus, it is possible to realize savings by refilling a position vacated by the retirement of a senior faculty member with a new member of lower rank. Thus, the school will continue its academic programming at lower cost, albeit with reduced staff support. The physical assets of the University must be preserved and their useful lives periodically enhanced and extended.