Findings and implications of a study of the institutional development of a sample of colleges and universities that were federally funded are summarized. The information is designed to assist personnel at the institutional level and at the developmental activity level. The study sample of 51 institutions had substantial funding through Title III of the Higher Education Act during the 1981-1982 academic year and for 4 or 5 previous years. As background, institutional development is discussed as a process of change as well as a set of interacting forces. Information on the study is also provided, including the selection of institutions, the selection of developmental activities for case study, and conduct of the field work. Findings at the institutional level are discussed regarding: rating institutional development as positive, stable, or vulnerable; factors associated with differences in developmental status; and other factors appearing to distinguish strong institutions. Findings at the activity level are examined concerning: criteria for determining success of individual development activities, factors related to success of developmental activities, and factors related to success of specific kinds of activities. Finally, the components of development that may be controlled by the institution (e.g., long-range planning) are discussed. (SW)