Abstract
This paper is derived from an academic information technology planning process undertaken at the University of Connecticut which resulted in a much clearer understanding of the role of technology and technology planning within the larger management of the university's academic mission. Fundamental to this analysis is the concept that an increased adoption of information technology is a strategy towards a larger vision and not an objective in and of itself. This paper focuses on the importance of academic planning at the university, school and department level and the associated issues of academic leadership, sustainable funding models, analysis of productivity, the importance of communication, and of faculty motivation.