cat·a·lyst noun cat·a·lyst \ˈka-tə-ləst\ An agent that provokes or speeds significant change or action

10 Minute Talks - For You, By You

Have you ever seen a TED talk? The Catalyst Series is a take-off on the concept. It gives our members the stage to create a short video and share their knowledge, experience, and ideas with their CCUMC colleagues. No need to fear—these aren't expected to be Hollywood productions. Just share your unique message in a clear, concise presentation that inspires, informs, educates, or challenges other CCUMC members. Presentations can be technical or non-technical, presented by you alone or with collaborators. Be brave—be a catalyst! Frequently Asked Questions

Click the thumbnail below for video example.

Videos can be created based upon: 

• Case Studies
• Photo Tours of Facilities
• Technical Solution Exchanges
• How-To Tips
• Interviews with Experts, Students, or Faculty
• How-We-Did-It Stories
• In-House Developed Software Demos
• Product Comparisons
• Point-Counterpoint Debates
• Panel Presentations

Frequently Asked Questions and Information on Submitting Your Idea

1). How do I submit a Catalyst proposal?

2.) When do you accept submissions?

Submissions will be accepted anytime; there are no deadlines. As videos are produced and posted, the library will simply continue to grow.

3.) Who is typically the "talent" in the video?

It will depend on the particular production. Typically, it would be a CCUMC member in the lead role. However, depending on the format or topic, additional people may be included from within the member's institution. Your proposal should be clear on who will be participating and their role so the committee can make an informed decision on whether it fits within Catalyst.

4.) Are Catalyst proposals limited to CCUMC members?

The person submitting the actual proposal must be a CCUMC member. However, the content of the video may draw on other people at the member's institution.

5.) Are people in all CCUMC membership categories able to contribute Catalyst videos?

Yes. Institutional, corporate, student, and retiree members are welcome to submit.

6.) Are there any special considerations for corporate members who want to produce a Catalyst video?

The focus should be on general technology trends, research findings, and other broad issues of interest to CCUMC members. While product-specific, sales-oriented materials are important resources for members, those types of productions are best left to corporate websites and other promotional channels.

7.) When will I hear back?

The Professional Development Committee generally meets frequently, so your submission will be considered within 2-3 weeks. We will get back to you with further "how to" production details once your Catalyst idea is approved.

8.) Do I need an "audition tape" or sample to submit with my proposal?

No.

9.) Do I need to include credits or titles in the video?

Once approved, we will provide production details which will include how to title your video, where to include names and credits information, etc.

10.) Will CCUMC use my video for any other purpose than on the website and YouTube?

No. If we have a future need, we would contact you for consent. Members, however, may use the videos in specific, limited ways noted below.

11.) Will viewers contact me about the video when it's posted? (Comments, questions, etc.)

Catalyst series is designed to encourage dialog and further discussion, we hope that you are willing and able to respond to other members who contact you for more information or to follow up with comments about your video.

12.) Can I use a PowerPoint?

Yes, but we hope that productions will be a bit more energetic than basic lecture capture with a PowerPoint core. If you use a PowerPoint, it should be to highlight your talk, not the center of it.

13.) What video formats will be acceptable?

Please save your file in the .mp4 format for best results and compatibility. You should not have any problem with this, as it will be one or more of the most common video file types.

14.) Will you screen the video before posting?

Yes. We hope videos will be fully acceptable "as is" on their initial submission, which should be the case if members follow the production details and guidelines. If necessary, though, the committee may recommend changes prior to final acceptance and publication to the website.

15.) How do I upload my completed Catalyst video?

You will receive detailed instructions on next steps, including uploading, once your video proposal is accepted.

16.) Must it be captioned?

Videos should be captioned, which means for best results, speaking clearly is important. The videos will be hosted on a YouTube, and YouTube can do auto-captioning.

17.) Do I, or others in the video, need a signed release?

Yes. The release is on the Catalyst website and will also be sent with your production instructions.

18.) How will members learn about newly released Catalyst videos?

We will post periodic "digest" updates on the CCUMC website and through the Listserv as new content becomes available.

19.) How else can members use Catalyst?

In addition to being a Catalyst for one's own personal and professional development, a member can incorporate a Catalyst video into staff development and training within their own CCUMC member institution, use it to inform or engage administration or faculty, or serve as focal point for discussion in meetings and events.

20.) Can I request that someone produce a video?

Certainly. If you feel that a short video on particular topic would benefit you and other members but you don't have the means or in-house expertise to take on the production, email your suggestion to ccumc@ccumc.org and the Professional Development Committee will do what we can to encourage someone to come forward and consider it.

21.) I want to be a Catalyst, but not sure I have something to contribute. What do you think?

There are so many talented members in CCUMC and their institutions. Chances are really good that you have something to share with your colleagues. Here are some ideas to get you thinking: