One University’s Experience Partnering with an Online Program Management (OPM) Provider: A Case Study
University and college administrators frequently choose to develop and implement online programs with the help of for-profit companies known as online program management (OPM) providers that specialize in the development and implementation of online programs. This paper reports on the partnership of a private university in the Western United States and OPM provider in the implementation of an online MBA program. Using a qualitative case study approach, data was collected from 8 administrators and online faculty at the university that participated in the implementation. The findings from the study can be summarized in the following four themes related to the partnership between the university and the OPM provider: (a) Decision Making, (b) Aligning Expectations, (c), Collaboration, and (d) Accountability. This case study is particularly relevant for administrators at universities and colleges who are considering partnerships with OPM providers.
