Designed for institutional researchers, this handbook provides practical guidelines for the operation of an effective research office. Chapter I defines institutional research and describes tasks a research office may undertake, including strategic planning support, budget development, facilities planning, personnel and staffing analyses, enrollment management, program evaluation, and accountability reports. Chapter II offers guidance on selecting software and hardware, including analytical and microcomputer software, database management packages, presentation graphics, word processing software, desktop publishing packages, and equipment needs. Chapter III focuses on the presentation of research findings to management, discussing 10 fundamental principles of data presentation, the relative merits of graphs and tables, principles of tabular and graphic design, purposes and types of graphics, graphic distortions, written reports, and oral presentations. Chapter IV makes recommendations for improving the institutional research office's productivity and effectiveness, covering personal time management techniques, matching tasks to individual strengths, adequate computer resources, annual research plans, office project management systems, institutional factbooks, networks and decision support systems, and collaborative projects. Finally, chapter V discusses several approaches to increasing office staff and resources, budgeting for consultant services, utilizing faculty research associates, replacing secretaries with computers and research technicians, pursuing grant-funded staffing positions, and promoting office visibility. (WJT)