From "How To" to "Why": Transforming Higher Education Governance Through Better Questions
#HigherEdLeadership #UniversityGovernance #StrategicLeadership #HigherEducation #BoardGovernance #LeadershipDevelopment #InstitutionalEffectiveness
As Daniel Pink recently observed on LinkedIn, we're drowning in "how to" content when what we really need are answers to "why." This insight resonates deeply within higher education, where governing boards and presidents often rush to implement solutions before fully understanding the challenges they face.
The Tyranny of "How"
When confronting complex challenges, boards typically default to asking "how" questions:
These questions, while practical, often lead to superficial solutions that address symptoms rather than root causes. They push us toward immediate action without sufficient understanding of the underlying issues shaping our institutions.
When higher education leaders ask what kinds of questions should we be asking to flex our generative muscle to optimize governance performance I have an elegantly simple suggestion: ask "why" questions.
The Transformative Power of "Why"
Consider instead the depth of insight that emerges when boards pivot to "why" questions:
"Why are enrollment numbers declining?" This question might reveal that traditional recruitment territories are experiencing demographic shifts, or that your institution's value proposition no longer resonates with contemporary students.
"Why do certain programs consistently underperform?" Such inquiry could uncover misalignment between curriculum and market demands, or highlight systemic barriers to student success.
"Why do we structure our academic calendar the way we do?" This exploration might challenge century-old assumptions about learning patterns and student needs. Mmmm, I see a sacred cow eligible for conversion into delicious burgers!
A New Framework for Board Deliberations
Effective governance requires both "why" and "how" questions, but their sequencing matters profoundly. Starting with "why" creates space for:
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Practical Implementation
For boards seeking to embrace this approach, consider:
Moving Forward
As higher education faces unprecedented challenges, the ability to ask and answer "why" questions becomes increasingly crucial. Boards that master this approach will be better positioned to guide their institutions through transformation while maintaining focus on core educational missions.
Conclusion
The path to institutional excellence doesn't begin with "how." It starts with "why." By embracing this shift in perspective, boards can move beyond reactive problem-solving to proactive institutional transformation.
Additional Readings:
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About the Author: Robert (Skip) Myers, Ph.D., advises and counsels college and university governing boards and their presidents seeking to optimize and align their joint leadership performance.
Follow him at Robert (Skip) Myers, Ph.D.
Principal and Founder at Greenwich Leadership Partners Advisor to Boards and Leadership
2wYes! The other power of “why” questions is to test assumptions: “why do we ….” Or “why are we” to test basic tenets about your organization and uncover whether the reasoning holds up!