Here is a brief update from the Office of Human Resources on the status of the Titling and Total Compensation study:
As we proceed with the Title and Total Compensation (TTC) Study, we are committed to providing regular updates to you and other UW-Madison stakeholders.
The focus of this joint UW-Madison and UW System study is to modernize the job title and total compensation structure, implement guidelines for compensation administration, and develop competitive work-life benefit programs that reflect contemporary workplaces. Mercer consulting will provide its expertise throughout the study.
During the TTC project launch in March, Mercer met with Advisory Council members to provide information on project oversight, timeline, major components of the proposed project plan, and communication and engagement strategies.
Mercer also conducted interviews with campus stakeholders (governance representatives, deans, directors, etc.). These discussions will provide meaningful input as the study progresses.
Below are answers to frequently asked questions we have received. Please use this information in response to inquiries from your constituents.
How long will the TTC Study take? The projected timeline is 24 months, starting February 21, 2017.
Where can I find information about the TTC Study? Information is on the study website (also can be reached from the Office of Human Resources home page at ohr.wisc.edu).
What is the TTC Advisory Council and what are the members’ roles? The Advisory Council (AC) is a UW System and UW-Madison group that plays a strategic role in guiding the joint study. AC members include stakeholders (governance, administration, etc.) from UW-Madison and other UW institutions. AC members will educate, support and communicate with their respective constituents and provide the project planning team with advice on different aspects of the study (see full AC charge).
What are the phases of the TTC Study? The TTC Study has five phases.
- Design study strategy (current phase)
- Assess positions and develop a new job title structure
- Create compensation structure
- Review benefits structures
- Implement new structures
Full descriptions of the phases are in the Mercer presentation.
How will shared governance be involved? Shared governance is crucial to ensure that campus employees have input and receive accurate and timely information. The study project structure and methodology were built with this in mind. Shared governance representatives are well-positioned on the joint Advisory Council and as active participants on the study Campus Collaboration Team. The Campus Collaboration Team will develop and provide guidance on the implementation of strategies for stakeholder engagement. These strategies will include campus forums, focus groups, targeted communication, and other activities. TTC project representatives also will continue to meet with shared governance groups to receive input and provide updates.
How can employees provide feedback and ask questions? Employees can provide feedback via e-mail to ttcstudy@ohr.wisc.edu. As engagement strategies roll out, employees will have opportunities to ask questions and provide feedback (e.g., open forums, focus groups, and webinars). Employees also can direct questions to Advisory Council members, shared governance members, and/or their human resources representatives.
What are the next steps? We are in the early stages of this project. We are developing the project plan, including some initial communication strategies. UW-Madison Advisory Council members have been actively involved in developing the communication strategies.