University of Salford – Inclusive structures driving transformational change

The University of Salford project team explored cultural enablers that drive transformational change within our institution and our project has evidenced that a more inclusive culture grounded in a sense of belonging and value, leads to more impactful transformation when ingrained at the heart of large scale HE change projects. We highlighted ten enablers which are drawn from the strength and barrier themes that stem from the analysis of the research. 

We learned that the sticky culture at the heart of the institution provides an inclusive environment for impactful transformation based on strong foundations and organisational cohesion. Factors for success were strongly related to how change feels; and through consideration of the lived experience and the understanding of pre-existing cultures, more effective communication and a more connected inclusive approach can be adopted to drive transformational change.  Where this was present the outcome was more positive feelings about change across all levels of the organisation.

Our interactive case study captures key learning points enacted from transformational change that leans on and learns from pre-existing models. Success was found through tapping into shared motivations and personal drivers to craft an inclusive vision through the development of a culture of trust and belonging. We showcase our findings through a range of digital assets providing an evidence base for members seeking to explore and embed inclusive culture transformation.

Aims and objectives

The key objectives of the project were threefold: 

• to examine how an institution can encourage a new culture to evolve
• to investigate the differences in the facilitation of culture transformation between four diverse Academic Schools
• to measure the impact in relation to benefits to staff in terms of wellbeing, a sense of belonging, value, and career development.

Project team