Innovating How We Work Together: Balancing Initiatives and Core Services

In today’s dynamic work environment, innovation isn’t just about new technologies. It’s about reimagining how we collaborate. Presented in partnership with the Women in Technology (WIT) community, this session explores how teams can innovate in their approach to cross-functional collaboration while balancing the demands of strategic initiatives and core service delivery. WIT fosters connection, professional development, and the exchange of ideas among technology professionals across campus, making it an ideal partner for this conversation on inclusive and effective collaboration. Participants will engage in scenario-based discussions, explore flexible staffing models, and leave with actionable strategies to foster inclusive, capacity-aware ways of working together.

About this event:

Presenters:

• Jacqueline Billhymer, Organizational Development Consultant, University of Ilinois – Illinois HR
• Leslie Sherman, Assistant Director of Application Development, IT Partners at Education

Track:

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Experience Needed:

Beginner

Learning Outcome:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

– Identify opportunities to strengthen cross-functional collaboration.
– Apply capacity-aware approaches to balancing strategic and operational work.
– Evaluate flexible staffing and workload-sharing strategies.
– Develop actionable steps to improve collaboration within their teams.

Additional Keywords:

innovation; teams, cross-functional collaboration; WIT