UM system survey gives employees voice
This is the first time in 10 years the survey has been offered.
Published Jan. 29, 2010
An upcoming UM system survey will enable employees seeking to voice their opinion on pay and benefits to throw their two cents into the ring. Associate Vice President of Benefits Michael Paden said the survey is being offered for the first time in 10 years.
UM system President Gary Forsee said in an e-mail to employees the survey would be provided in confidentiality near the end of the month.
"One reason for conducting the survey now is that it is a direct response to requests from faculty and staff seeking an opportunity to provide input in the strategic planning associated with UM's benefit programs," Paden said.
The results from the confidential survey will eventually be made public and be used by the UM system Retirement and Staff Benefits Committee to advise Forsee.
"HR has said data from the survey will be shared and open to all employees," Faculty Council Chairwoman Leona Rubin said.
The survey, which was originally scheduled to be available near the end of January, will instead be online late next week or early the following week due to a slight delay, Paden said.
Paden said responses from the survey will help to determine if the UM system is allocating benefits and resources efficiently and in the way that is most important to its employees.
"The survey will consist of a number of questions and scenarios for employees to consider," Paden said. "The objective is to measure employee perceptions on the value of UM's various benefit programs and to determine if UM is focusing its benefit resources in areas that are of the most importance to faculty and staff."
Among other topics, employees will answer questions about pension and medical benefits and wellness programs, Paden said. Additionally, survey-takers will have a chance to assess the services the benefits provide.
"The survey allows each employee an opportunity to provide his or her perspective on benefits issues," Paden said.
Rubin said she is in support of the survey and it could be useful for employees who choose to take part in it.
"I think it is always advantageous for faculty and staff to have input and opportunities to express opinions to administration regarding such important issues as compensation," Rubin said.
Mizzou Advantage, MU's new set of initiatives to make the university more competitive, also aims to collect employee feedback, but is not connected to the upcoming employee survey.
Paden said the survey will not just consist of multiple-choice questions but will let employees contribute in a different format.
"The survey will also include a free form section that allows faculty and staff an opportunity to offer additional comments," Paden said.
Paden said they are hoping at least 45 percent of faculty or staff will provide feedback but encourage all employees to respond.