Discussed is the reporting quandary at higher education institutions. These points are appraised: the clearinghouse function, data definitions, and the data base management function. The author warns against the suggestion that the institutional research office should assume the responsibility for all reports prepared by and departing from the institution. Rather, he envisions that the clearinghouse function of the office might be developed and supported. It is further suggested that this function be more closely aligned with the function of the institution's data base manager to guarantee consistent definition and appropriate use of individual pieces of data. (MSE)