TNS consultation on a new business model for Ako Aotearoa: final report.

Last updated by: ako_admin (Ako Administrator) on 21 February 2012 - 2:02pm

Cover of the TNS Conversa report

In 2011, Ako Aotearoa was asked by Hon. Stephen Joyce, Minister for Tertiary Education, to explore ways of expanding its role by generating more support from the tertiary sector.

In response to this request, Ako Aotearoa commissioned TNS Conversa to undertake consultation within the sector about Ako Aotearoa and its future. Over 300 people completed an online survey and 46 tertiary leaders were interviewed. Dr. Peter Coolbear, Director of Ako Aotearoa, notes, 'We very much appreciate people spending the time to provide some very thoughtful responses.'

 

 

As part of the consultation, respondents were asked to consider 6 different business models. Although the report reveals very positive perceptions of Ako Aotearoa's work within the sector – and confirms the findings of a formative evaluation done in 2010 – opinions about the organisation's future direction were divided. 

Even so, a three-tiered model attracted the most support. This would include Ako Aotearoa offering:

  • some fully funded services and projects
  • some partially funded projects, and
  • a portfolio of full cost-recovery services.

On the basis of this consultation, a new business model has been developed and is currently with the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) for consideration.