ABSTRACT
The learning centre concept draws on the expertise of information, information technology and learning development staff; its buildings provide access to a similarly wide range of facilities, resources and services that have previously been managed separately. However, organizational convergence of these academic service units is certainly not a prerequisite. Nevertheless, more than half of UK higher education institutions have decided that organizational convergence of academic services is necessary to optimize their contribution to institutional strategies. The nature of this organizational convergence can be seen as a strong statement of institutional intent. The different approaches adopted by each institution are examined in terms of rationale, organizational model and vision, mission and objectives. Organizational convergence is often a response to the need to deal with continued pressure on the deployment of resources. The chosen organizational framework would need to deliver seamless, user-focused service provision. Staff and service management arrangements in the Adsetts Centre were a significant influence.
