The Most Important, But Often Forgotten Department: Sports Information
The Intersection Between Human Capital and Managerial Operations in Division II College Athletics
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18060/26504Keywords:
sports information directors, collegiate athletics, administration, NCAA, human capital theoryAbstract
Sports information operations can be crucial to the success of an athletic department; however, a review of NCAA Division II website staff directories indicated that the majority of institutions operating in this division utilize a one-person sports information operation system. The one-person operation may be considered the norm, but previous research reports sports information directors (SIDs) feel overworked and under-appreciated in their positions. With the negative perspective reported by SIDs working in the industry, an analysis exploring sports information operations management in Division II could offer innovative solutions for institutions operating with a one-person SID operation. An electronic survey was distributed to all NCAA Division II SIDs and the researchers conducted a content analysis from survey responses to identify current perceptions and experiences Division II SIDs have regarding sports information operations on campus. Results indicate that Division II SIDs are expected to perform many functions with very limited resources. Recommendations for improving working conditions for Division II SIDs are discussed and innovative solutions are offered.
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