While I could fill this edition of In the Know with information about data security standards or politics, I have chosen a lighter topic: the positive outcomes that resulted from preparing and delivering our presentation.

Sincerely,

Tracy Filosa

Practitioners who present have a lot to gain from the experience.

Practitioners who are busy tackling the tasks of new compliance and business challenges are usually so immersed in their work that they don't have the luxury of reflecting on their efforts or drawing attention to their accomplishments. Yet, the work of preparing and reflecting offers insights into the specific project and future efforts. The Tufts presenters were able to learn from their own work through the presentation process as they reflected on what worked well, what was significant; and what lessons will benefit others.

Practitioners who present have a lot to offer.

The people who have actually done the leg work of an arduous project are the presenters who have the most to offer to the audience. They are effective because they are tuned into the details and the results that will be most helpful to others who will be tackling the same kind of work. They are able to synthesize key information and the most relevant advice for their peers. The audience at the Tufts PCI compliance presentation received a clear project road map from professionals facing similar challenges and seeking similar results.

For many presenting involves exercising a different set of muscles and often reveals new professional insights.

My co-presenters were a little nervous before the presentation. They are expert in the behind the scenes work of Treasury and Information Technology, but not practiced in the art and skills of presenting and public speaking. They conquered their jitters, spoke candidly about their experiences and were rewarded with the poignant questions, thanks, feedback and recognition from their audience. Sharing their experiences and responding to questions literally gave voice to their hard work and success. They realized that the challenges they faced on this project, and the lessons they had learned, were well worth sharing.

Germane presentation contributions inspire important questions and dialogue that continue beyond the conference hall.

Presenters who step to the podium open up new dialogue and learning opportunities with their colleagues at other institutions. Professional contacts offer new opportunities to access best practices, learn about service providers and bounce ideas off of colleagues facing similar business challenges. Higher education is a generous business environment; most professionals appreciate a presenter's contributions and are happy to support peer institutions by sharing examples, templates and helpful resources. Each institution needs to customize deliverables to their unique environment, but peer examples offer a great starting point.

It was very rewarding to watch two professionals I had worked closely with for many months step up to the podium in Indianapolis. They took a risk, learned about their work and themselves, grew professionally, and demonstrated how valuable they are to their university and the business of higher education. Encouraging unsung heroes to find their voice offers growth for the individual, the institution and the industry.

If you have more questions about securing the personal and credit card data of your students, donors and customers you will find our presentation on the TAF website. I am happy to talk with you about your established or upcoming efforts in this area.

Also, if you want to talk politics, give me a call at 978- 312-1989!

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TAF CONSULTING
TAF Consulting is a flexible, responsive consultancy that provides planning, documentation and training services to colleges, universities and other nonprofit organizations. TAF offers cost-effective solutions, so clients can access and develop industry-specific skills and expertise for their organizations.

Contact TAF or visit our website to learn more about our work and to read previous editions of In the Know.