Technology Advisor, IT Client Services
Staff member since: 2001
Background: IT consulting and project management. Master's degree in Technology in Education; worked in community organizing, non-profit human services (as a Webmaster and IT consultant), and IT professional services.
Came to HBS because: Combined all three of his professional interests: education, information technology, and project management. "Plus, I love the eight-minute commute by bike."
Main job responsibilities: As liaison between the IT Group and several HBS departments, advocates the School's technology strategy and architecture, as well as helps departments articulate business needs and priorities. Advises on everything from helping staff best use online communities and other tools, to brainstorming how a new application could work. For custom development solutions, collaborates with the rest of the IT team to see the project through to completion.
Not that any day is typical, but what might you do during a given day?
Well, here are some examples of things I might take on in a day:
What do you like best about working in the HBS IT Group?
I really appreciate the chance to grow and learn -- HBS offers a constant flow of learning opportunities, not only access to the various school publications, but more importantly, to the ideas and findings of colleagues -- like a cool new website or browser tool. It's also great to be around thoughtfully applied, and cool, technology... I haven't used a floppy disk since I started working here in 2001.
Also, our group really impacts the way things are done at the School. When our team completes a project I feel like we've delivered something that people will actually use -- whether it's a student profile directory, a time-saving administrative tool, or an in-class simulation exercise.
How have you developed professionally since joining the IT Group?
I really feel I've been given the flexibility to grow in my areas of interest as well as learning not just in information technology but also in the ways we work and get things done. For example, we're in the midst of implementing an Agile project methodology, which is a lot of fun to explore. Lastly, I no longer need a compass to navigate the labyrinth of on-campus tunnels.
What does it take to succeed here?
What might surprise people about the IT Group?
This is not your typical IT group. In many other places IT means tech support only. While we do have great support, we also have people truly creating the "must-have" tools of tomorrow, as well as people helping non-technical folks use those tools successfully. And there's usually no shortage of desserts in the dining hall!
