Role of Departmental Liaison

Last Revised: 2/06

The purpose of this document is to define the role of the departmental liaison. The departmental liaison is selected by his/her department with input from Information Technology.

Departmental liaisons are the primary contact to Information Technology. Each academic and administrative department should assign this role to an individual in their area. This person should understand the role and be able to represent their respective department in all technology communications / discussions. As IT issues or needs arise in a department, it is the role of the liaison to communicate with the IT Support Specialist listed on the USS web page. All primary planning communication should happen between the departmental liaison and IT Support Specialist. This process allows for one point of contact from each area and helps to both streamline the process and cut down on duplicate efforts.

There are a few specific instances where the liaison is instrumental in the effective and efficient communication of technology needs.

Departmental technology needs for individuals:

The liaison should indentify specific needs that have either changed or are not being met for individuals in their department. This helps keep Information Technology and/or the Support Specialist in touch with the needs of their areas of responsibility.

Regular meetings:

To ensure that proper communication is occurring, the IT Support Specialist will schedule regular meetings with the departmental liaison. It is important to have these meetings and be prepared to discuss any outstanding issues.

Budgetary considerations:

As IT develops its yearly budgets, the departmental liaison will be instrumental in ensuring that IT is aware of all new initiatives and/or enhancements to current configuration.