Phases of Federated IT

The Federated IT model has four high-level phases that help guide the Federated IT work. Each phase is designed to document the individual needs of a partner college or unit while meeting defined objectives that will support the success and sustainability of the Federated IT partnership. The outline of the four phases will help guide the Federated IT work and ensure progress through the process.

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Phase 1 — Collective Understanding

Throughout the first phase of the Federated IT process, the MAU and MSU IT focus on active listening, learning, and collaborating to seek opportunities and information that provide a better understanding of unit drivers and experiences. Takeaways from the Collective Understanding phase will help influence the next phase, Collaborative Design.

  • Phase 1 Objectives include:
    • Seeking opportunities for collaboration
    • Understanding the unit and IT mission, vision, and values
    • Discussing major concerns and expectations

Phase 2 — Collaborative Design

The second phase of the Federated IT process focuses on developing a shared process and framework that meets the needs of the unit, IT, and the university.

  • Phase 2 Objectives include: 
    • Developing a shared vision
    • Creating a roadmap
    • Identifying a transition team
    • ​​​​​​​Establishing priorities and a tentative timeline

Phase 3 — Transition & Initial 6-Month Period

In the third phase of the Federated IT process, the shared vision established during Phase 2 is implemented, and continuous assessment and modification are provided. During this initial six-month period, a Memo of Agreement (MOA) is signed, and the alignment of staff, technologies, policies, and processes is carried out.

  • Phase 3 Objectives include: 
    • Developing and implementing the Memo of Agreement (MOA)
    • Determining assessment and adjustment periods​​​​​​​
    • Applying staff transitions

Phase 4 — Operational Partnership

In the final phase of the Federated IT process, the MAU and MSU IT deliver on the established goals and objectives outlined in the MOA.

  • Phase 4 Objectives include:
    • Establishing communication cadence
    • Ongoing alignment of unit and IT goals
    • Leveraging enterprise IT to remain cost effective to the university
    • Exploring unit-specific priorities
    • Seeking continual improvement