Comparator Research
To develop the Framework and policy template, the process reviewed policies and approaches to policy development of comparable institutions within British Columbia. They included BC’s five largest research universities as well as two special-purpose teaching universities and represented a valuable comparison as they all operate within the same legal jurisdiction as VIU. Individual institutions policies and procedures for policy development (often called a “policy on policies”) were also reviewed.
The following BC institutions were included in the review:
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University
- Simon Fraser University
- Thompson Rivers University
- University of British Columbia
- University of the Fraser Valley
- University of Northern British Columbia
- University of Victoria
In addition to BC based institutions, the policy frameworks of the following two institutions were reviewed:
- Monash University (Australia)
- Toronto Metropolitan University
These two institutions were chosen as they provided examples of policy development processes that used strategic frameworks.
Comparator research revealed that though there are many similarities amongst the comparators, there is no single standard approach to policy development. Differences are reflective of the unique histories and cultures of the institutions surveyed.
Framework Development and Approval
The Framework approach (as opposed to a “policy on policies”) was chosen to provide an overarching strategic approach to university policies. As well as setting out policy principles, it seeks to define parameters that apply to all policies so that those parameters do not have to be repeated in individual policies. This enables the creation of a “policy template” that is simpler for policymakers to use and makes the policies easier for the university community and other constituents to understand.
To guide the development of the Framework, several policy principles were developed. They are based on a review of the approach of comparator institutions as well as VIU’s strategic plan and a survey of key VIU executive members.
The Framework also takes elements and language from multiple institutions’ policy frameworks or policies/procedures on policies.
By examining all these inputs, a Framework was developed to meet VIU’s unique institutional needs and culture.
The Policy Framework went to the Board of Governors for First Reading in May 2023. It received second reading and approval by the Board of Governors in May 2024.