In 1999, Vanderbilt began the an initiative to systematically learn how employees feel about their work environment through satisfaction surveys and focus groups. From that initiative, the Vanderbilt Quality of Worklife (QWL) was commissioned.

In order to attract and retain the best faculty and staff, Vanderbilt has made a commitment to look at additional measures to ensure that its employees feel supported in their efforts to balance the competing demands of home and work life.

In an environment as diverse as that of Vanderbilt, it is necessary to communicate all the available programs and services to each member of the faculty and staff. Employee feedback will be a crucial part of the success of this project. In 2006, the QWL task force is under the co-leadership of Susie Lyons (Employee Programs, Medical Center Communications) and Marilyn Holmes (HEALTH Plus).