Concerning required documentation, see below. Departments must demonstrate that the candidate has credentials comparable to those of faculty promoted to that rank within the University. Since the review process takes time, chairs should plan ahead in proposing such appointments. Strong supporting documentation consists of prior achievement of the requested rank in a peer or better department in a peer or better institution. Lack of prior service credit does not mean that an individual must serve a full probationary period at Ohio State.
Earlier review is possible when justified by the record of accomplishment.
Thus prior service credit should not be requested unless a candidate demands it and even in those circumstances the department should discourage the candidate. Often faculty members with prior service credit experience slowed productivity during the first year or two, resulting in a marginal record at the time of the mandatory review. Prior service credit may be especially problematic for faculty whose prior experience was at a non-peer institution. External evaluations from credible writers, not all of whom were suggested by the candidate.