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The Students' Union Evaluation Initiative is an assessment model that assists in improving the services and activities delivered to members of the Union by indicating areas for continuous improvement.
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FAQs
How much extra time does it take?
- The Project Manager needs to have time to monitor and administer the scheme - ensuring Action Plans are completed and updated. This has been estimated at around 2 days per month over the whole period although additional time is required at the start.
The analysis of improvement required and subsequent action depends on how many people are involved. It has been recognised from Cohort members that this is not 'extra time' but should be/is a part of the normal managerial/leadership process.
What is the best way to engage people in SUEI?
- Build a vision of what the Union could be like - and present the project as being part of a need to get closer to the membership - understanding their needs and trying to satisfy them. Re-emphasising the value of "everything we do must be member driven".
SUEI should not be a 'bolt-on' to existing activities but a new way of doing things - a process not an outcome.
Is it just for large unions?
- The basic philosophy of SUEI is that a Union must satisfy the needs of its own members. It does not provide a 'Model Students Union' solution. It provides a framework for Unions of any size to work within the resources it has at its disposal to ensure that these are targeted at properly identified outcomes for its own students.
An existing Cohort member from a smaller Union has stated:
"For smaller Unions it is probably more important than resources are used effectively and creatively. You get help from larger Unions in the Cohort."
Isn't it very expensive?
- SUEI provides a continuous improvement framework for all the Union's work - rather than a particular section of services/activities. When this is considered it provides excellent value, but the greatest 'added value' is the work the Union undertakes as part of the process.
In addition to the fee Unions have to ensure four delegates attend the 3 workshops which are an essential part of the SUEI process.
Does it make any real difference to the union and it's members?
Some quotes from existing Cohort members:-
- 'Being involved with SUEI has brought us close to our members. It has really helped us focus on looking at all issues from their point of view.'
- 'SUEI is really good value for money - it questions the basics and concentrates on outcomes for members - it's a real challenge for officers and staff.'
- 'SUEI is a real catalyst for change……….a blueprint for an effective Union.'
©Students' Union Evaluation Initiative Ltd 2008
