The widespread use of comparative data can lead to problems on a campus unless the data are systematically incorporated in the institutional planning cycle. A model has been developed to alleviate a number of problems and increase the power of comparison as a management tool. (MSE)

In the interest of understanding the role of Chief Planning Officers (CPO) in gaining broad support for planning within an institution of higher education, this paper used a national survey of administrators to examine that role. This study, conducted by the National Center for Postsecondary Governance and Finance, involved a survey of 3,333…

While microcomputers may be easy to acquire and put into use, advance consideration of some pertinent issues will ensure that they are used successfully for planning and management support. (Author/MLW)

A discussion of the need for institutional research to address student financial aid issues in higher education outlines, first, a research agenda for use within institutions, and then presents a research agenda for emerging policy issues and the role that institutional research might play in positioning institutions to participate in national…

Effective college information-technology (IT) planning must be integrated into institutional planning, mission, and goals. Topics discussed include key constructs for ensuring that the acquisition and implementation of IT furthers the institution's strategic plan, an inclusive governance structure and facility planning approach, funding…

Argues that community colleges must be able to incorporate information about themselves and their clientele into delivery systems, operational strategies, and strategic planning. Underscores the importance of program evaluation in institutional planning and of needs assessments as a vital communications process between service area and college.…

Policy analysis in higher education is distinct from but is informed by and can contribute to both institutional research and institutional planning. Policy analysis extends beyond data analysis, using many qualitative research methods and a degree of intuition, and focuses on specific issues, not systems as does planning. (MSE)

Policy analysis provides the framework for enrollment planning in the Arizona university system. The new planning model consists of a statement of principles, a five-year strategic plan, an enrollment demand model, determination of institutional capacities, development of strategies to meet demand, and analysis of policy choices and consequences.…

Based on a national survey of college administrators' (n=3,333) views of planning, this study investigated the relationship between having a chief planning officer to coordinate planning functions and perceptions of and attitudes toward campus planning. Results suggest the presence of a planner increased perceptions of more rational and…

Ethnographic interviews offer the academic decision maker an alternative lens with which to gather information, develop hypotheses, and implement plans. Specific procedures must be followed to use the technique properly, and other research methods should accompany the ethnographic interview for increased validity. (MSE)

Describes a project of the Coalition for Networked Information, founded in 1990 to advance scholarship interest in the networked-computer environment. The project coordinated work of seven higher education institutions in conducting assessments of their campus networks. Topics discussed include the networking climate on campuses, why assessment is…

Comparison is inherent to system and state coordination activities and is valuable for overall review and for identifying differential needs. A variety of factors affect interinstitutional comparisons, and close cooperation between boards and institutions can increase the effectiveness of the process. (MSE)

It is recommended that colleges and universities considering building renovation or new construction first conduct a feasibility study to uncover existing conditions, avoid potential problems, explore design options, and determine comparative costs. A seven-step process for such a study is outlined. (MSE)

A pilot survey of institutional research and planning (IR/P) functions at 78 U.S. colleges and universities yielded data on common and diverse tasks, products, and services; broad staffing and related operating expense requirements for these tasks, products, and services; and specific staff "person days" required to perform/achieve each…

The purposes and nature of institutional research are described as well as its role in institutional governance and of the contributions it can make to the functioning of postsecondary institutions. The first section in the booklet discusses the nature and purposes of institutional research by describing several forms of research and comparing and…