Even if you don’t have a child in college this year, you’ve likely heard about the debacle with Federal financial aid. The whole system was targeted for an overhaul — forms, codes, processing — but on an unrealistic timeline. As a result, colleges still don’t have the information they need to determine financial aid awards, leaving the students who rely on knowing costs in limbo regarding their college choice. It has been a nightmare for everyone involved.
It started with good intentions — let’s make filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) easier for families — who wouldn’t agree to that? However, the deciders did not understand the complexity of the issue or have any grasp of a realistic timeline to accomplish such a project, nor did they consult with front-line people who could have enlightened them. Congress got its soundbite but the hassles trickled down from there, with implications reverberating throughout the country as decision deadlines near.
The problems with the FAFSA occurred on a national scale but are indicative of situations that happen in organizations every day. Those with authority make lofty decisions and leave others to “figure it out,” even when the parameters are impossible to meet. Promises are made — then broken — and the end-user or alleged beneficiary is left hanging.
Those at the top of the hierarchy are equipped to determine the “why” of a project but should leave the “how” and “when” to those with a deeper understanding of what is involved. Before announcing a substantial change effort, do a reality check with someone who will be involved in the implementation. It’s far better to ask and adjust upfront than to apologize for delays.
