Benchmarking to identify good practice university policy frameworks

Abstract

This paper presents the outcomes of web‐based research examining 16 Australian and New Zealand University Policy Frameworks. The research explored the various ways in which Australasian Universities articulate University Policy Frameworks (through Policy on Policy, or ‘meta‐policy’ statements and other mechanisms), and undertake policy development and review. The paper explores the hierarchical relationships between governance and policy instruments, approval authorities and University policy scope. The paper examines various Australian University Policy Cycle models, including those identified as ‘value adding’. The paper explores policy promulgation methods including Policy Websites and Policy Repositories, and examines the range of tools available to support the Policy Cycle. The role of ongoing monitoring and evaluation is examined, and policy review mechanisms to support continuous policy ‘quality’ improvement. The research suggests some key criteria for the quality management of University Policy Frameworks from an Australasian, cross‐Tasman perspective.