ABSTRACT
Support through individuals and campus units often comes in the form of alliances. Making successful alliances requires understanding the character of the institution and its modes of operation. Only then can one can innovate successfully and sustainably. As an senior international officer (SIO), users have a broad portfolio, and they will have a broad network of alliances, inside and outside their institution. Every academic institution has a unique culture, inherited from the past, but shaped by the personalities and interactions of senior administrators. This culture will frame the challenges and opportunities users face as an SIO. All campuses are structured somewhat differently, and positions within the structure are occupied by distinct individual personalities. An important aspect of organizational culture is power. Obviously, long-term productive alliances will involve a great deal of both collaboration and compromise, and over time, partners will probably get better and better at building lasting relationships.
