The first of a two-part series addressing extension administration and management, this discusses/commentary challenges traditional extension administrative practice arguing that a particular method does not make a benchmark in the modern work place. The innovation systems approach is defined, how it relates to extension administration/management is examined. Management challenges and the implication of such practices to extension work are also examined with a conclusion that the extension manager/administrator should be an active innovator in order to respond faster, compete efficiently and continually adapt to changing environment.