Uncertainty is not a problem to be solved, but rather an opportunity to be explored, often with a sense of play and boundlessness. Clear lines of responsibility but no restrictive boundaries. The emphasis is on collective approaches and solutions, not on territory. Decisions do not have to be made by consensus. Selective use of outsiders for complementary insights and information.
Special expertise can often play a catalytic role in reaching outcomes.
A strong commitment from senior administration is imperative. Targeted projects linked to strategic plans and pursued in an incremental fashion will have a better chance of success than a forced merger or an overly ambitious multi-goal project. The creation of new interdepartmental forums, with an emphasis on bringing together those people with the requisite expertise, will facilitate progress. If more formal alliances or organizational relationships solidify over time, then the preliminary collaborations will have yielded additional dividends. If we recognize the converging paths of information technology and libraries, and embrace the essential nature of collaboration, then the prospect brightens for a virtual information commons on our campuses.