Begun as part of Auburn University’s 2013-2018 strategic plan, the Strategic Budgeting Initiative is an ongoing process designed to focus resources on Auburn’s mission and priorities. Prior to fall 2017, Auburn’s budget model--the mechanism that determines the amount of resources allocated to each college, school, and support unit--was built on historical precedents and incremental change. While this approach is predictable in the short and long-term, it freezes financial decisions made years ago and limits the ability to address new challenges and opportunities. Furthermore, a historic, incremental model restricts funds for investment in the university’s strategic priorities.
Following an intense and comprehensive investigation period, the Strategic Budgeting Steering Committee recommended the “Auburn Model” a responsibility-centered management focused model to be implemented at Auburn with the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2016. The information provided is intended to describe the elements of the “Auburn Model” including the role of shared governance along with the definitions of key terms and frequently asked questions.