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Management

KyAMK’s quality system and quality criteria for good management

Management culture at Kymenlaakson ammattikorkeakoulu, University of Applied Sciences is not based on any specific theory or framework (strategic management, quality management, process management, information management, etc.). Instead, it is based on our agreed quality criteria. In accordance with the principle of autonomy, universities of applied sciences themselves have individual responsibility for their own quality assurance.

In 2007, Kymenlaakson ammattikorkeakoulu, University of Applied Sciences launched a management training programme for all directors and supervisors, and this training will continue in 2008. We have set quality criteria for good management and agreed to conform to them. Meeting these criteria means that our conduct is exemplary and in line with our vision and values. This includes the ability to co-operate, which involves showing respect and appreciation to others and working to achieve the goals of the organisation. For supervisors, flexibility means that they tolerate uncertainty, have the courage of their convictions, are pro active and see changes as opportunities. In their work, trust means loyalty to the organisation and colleagues, transparency and commitment to agreements. Furthermore, supervisors

• develop and implement the management system
• interact with students, clients, partners and authorities
• promote excellence in the organisation
• instigate change.
  

The following methods are used to evaluate the management culture and procedures at Kymenlaakso University of Applied Sciences:

• annual self-evaluation by the Steering Group
• evaluation of the Balanced Scorecard management system
• self-evaluation in accordance with the EFQM evaluation criteria every 5–6 years
• external evaluation or audit every 5–6 years
• work atmosphere survey of personnel every 3 years
• evaluation in connection with annual internal target and result negotiations / the process includes management review
• internal audits in faculties and units
• personnel meetings, other open feedback events
• evaluation in accordance with the faculties’ quality assurance systems
• evaluation in accordance with the quality assurance systems of the administration / service units
• annual performance reviews.

Risk management

The annual report of Kymenlaakson ammattikorkeakoulu Oy describes the most significant risks and uncertainties associated with the structure and operations of the organisation.

Strategic risks

The effects of regional politics on long-term decision-making concerning Kymenlaakso University of Applied Sciences create uncertainty, as regards the operative management’s decision-making and negotiations on development of higher education in Southeast Finland.

Operational risks

Well-being at work is an important element of competitiveness. No final decisions have been made on the employment of the Kuusankoski campus personnel after the campus is closed. This has resulted in insecurity among the personnel, which may reflect on well-being at work, work motivation, performance and, subsequently, costs. This question needs special attention.

The network of Finnish higher education institutions will be modernised by 2012. This will include organising them as strategic alliances. In 2008, the Kymenlaakso, South Karelia and Mikkeli Universities of Applied Sciences and the Lappeenranta University of Technology will continue to plan a project to modernise higher education in Southeast Finland. The modernisation means that we must prepare for a higher business risk. This will probably cause uncertainty among personnel with regard to future developments and among students with regard to their future studies.

At the initial stage of the process, extensive structural changes will probably have both positive and negative effects on the key figures indicating KyAMK's performance. In the long run, the goals of structural development and the measures to achieve them aim for general improvement of performance, productivity and quality. Part of the core funding granted to universities of applied sciences is performance- and project-based.

In addition to the overall number of students, the level of core funding depends on the number of completed degrees. Development is forecast based on various general performance indicators and the overall occupancy rate. The decisions on measures to improve efficiency are based on the key figures.

Financing risks

According to the Finnish Ministry of Education, the number of students in universities of applied sciences will decrease by 2020. This means that financing of building projects involves a risk, because the amount of depreciation taken into account in KyAMK’s funding is based on the number of students. In addition, uncertainty is caused by changes in depreciation and building costs, for example.

Modified: 15.8.2008 09:46

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