New UMass Graduate Business Chapter Positively Impacts Community
Six members from the University of Massachusetts’ new Net Impact chapter volunteered through most of January, consulting for non-profit trendsetter ServiceNet Inc, one of the largest human service and mental health agencies in Western Massachusetts.
The team conducted a series of six survey and interview sessions with groups of staff-level employees to solicit feedback on the integration of a new electronic medical records system called eHana, then led two formal presentations at ServiceNet central and submitted a 36 page report detailing findings and recommendations for top management including CEO Susan Stubbs, who commented on the high quality of this consultation. “These students achieved a depth of understanding of our operations that was truly remarkable, given the short time-frame of this project,” said Stubbs. “Not only were their insights right on the money, but they zeroed in on problem areas that it might have taken us months to uncover.” At the end of the consultation, she asked if ServiceNet could be put on the list for future consultations by Net Impact.
The UMass Net Impact team sought to inform ServiceNet’s decisions as it deploys eHana to its Emergency Services division and as it expands the system through modifications and additional forms. “The Net Impact team went all out in order to assist ServiceNet in improving both client services and the working environment for employees” said volunteer Daryl LaFleur. “We were met appreciatively by staff and administrators alike and are pleased to have served as a bridge towards improved system implementations in ServiceNet’s future.”
For students, the project provided a unique, real-world opportunity to apply learned techniques from such disciplines as organizational behavior, project management and corporate creativity during what is traditionally a down time for many graduate students at the University. “The ServiceNet project has been a very positive experience for me,” said volunteer Devon Long. “It’s enabled UMass Net Impact to be true to its mission statement and allowed us to practice the skills we’re studying every day. I couldn’t think of a more productive way to spend my winter break!”
Net Impact is a global network of MBAs, graduate students and professionals striving to “change the world through business” by achieving positive social, environmental and economic goals. The university’s Net Impact chapter, led by president and co-founder William Noto, was inaugurated within the Isenberg’s School of Management this past fall.
ServiceNet’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for Pioneer Valley residents in need by providing effective and responsive clinical, residential and rehabilitative services. Its programs include acute mental health services, outpatient clinical and counseling services, adolescent support programs and rehabilitation and residential programs for those with mental health issues, mental retardation, or head injuries.
