Process-based management effectiveness in a public HEI: quantitative insights from a pilot project

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors that influence on process-based management effectiveness. A survey was carried out in a Brazilian public Higher Education Institution (HEI) and a valid sample of 202 responses was obtained. Data analysis was performed through multivariate statistical techniques, which included both exploratory factor and regression analyses. The results showed that understanding and commitment, user value, process standardization, continuous improvement and non value activities identification influence the effectiveness of processes. A regression analysis was adopted to identify the dimensions of HEI process effectiveness. The Process-based Management Practices project will contribute to the development of strategies and actions that enhanced a more effective university management scheme, which shall respond to the increased pressure from the Brazilian Federal Government to upgrade the HEIs decisional processes. The development of new process-based management decision-making practices will have a direct impact on the HEIs’ managers, directors and deans, in terms of higher levels of efficacy, efficiency and relevancy, from which the academic community will benefit directly. The identification of the attributes that will aggregate the process-based management patterns related to HEIs, prioritizing the strategies and actions that will contribute to excellence in decision-making.