Adapt to an Online Environment to Develop Policies

Posted By Megan Jones, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Monday, July 13, 2020

Using Microsoft Teams to Facilitate Discussions

Metropolitan State University of Denver began to shift its policy-development process to an online environment prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Online editing, file sharing, and voting help to promote transparency in MSU Denver’s decision-making process by providing access to policy drafts during deliberation. However, as access to campus is currently limited to protect the health of the university community, the need to develop policies virtually has become more important.

Share Resources and Come to Consensus Online

Coming to consensus in an online environment can be challenging. Policies often impact multiple constituents and offices that are responsible for communication and implementation. Microsoft Teams offers video-conferencing and live-chat features that allow multiple participants to be viewed on-screen and to upload policy templates, feedback, and other resources, such as links to related legislation, in real-time during virtual meetings. Features include:

Video conferencing
Group editing of drafts and presentation slides
Live chat and brainstorming
Screen and image sharing
Branded backgrounds and logos

Don’t Forget the Fun Stuff!

Keeping things light, even during times of social and organizational upheaval, helps to calm frazzled nerves and to create a sense of community among policy developers. Sometimes our only option is to smile and support each other. The following can be shared over email, in a Teams chat, or on social media: