Conventional wisdom may support the presumed notion that higher expectations increase efficiency and improve quality. However, this claim may only be validated when workers are equipped with appropriate tools, training, and a conducive work environment. This study implements various interventions, observes outcomes, and analyzes data collected in three different institutions between 2003 and 2010. To increase efficiency and improve quality in research administration, an "open-expectation," outcome-based efficiency (application review turn-around, operating costs), and quality (compliance error rate) improvement initiative was taken and data collected. Before initiation and during the observation and data collection, the stakeholders were consulted, tools generated, employees trained, conducive work environments created, and expectations clearly communicated to employees. Analyses of the data showed that implementation of the initiative with an expectation of improvement resulted in improved employee efficiency and quality of their work, resulting in improved financial performance of the operating units studied. (Contains 1 table, 9 figures, and 2 endnotes.)