Contents:

CATALYST SUMMARY METHODOLOGY ANALYSIS There are powerful contextual forces in the education market driving the adoption of BI Education institutions are data rich but intelligence poor Data exists in a large number of unconnected silos Complex data relationships require more sophisticated analytical tools Federal and state accountability policies are demanding evidence-based indicators of effectiveness Competition for students and resources is growing amongst institutions Investments in the IT infrastructure reveal the need for more advanced reporting tools The uptake of BI solutions will languish unless gaps in market knowledge are addressed Institutions have not fully embraced evidence-based decision-making Frustrating limitations remain in the institutional IT infrastructure A common taxonomy has not yet emerged to segment BI solutions Purchasing a BI solution is primarily a business decision BI solutions will have a profound impact on how education institutions operate Instruction and learning outcomes will be targeted and evaluated in new ways Institutions will recognize the value of operating as an enterprise An evidence-based culture will improve institutional effectiveness APPENDIX Definitions Further reading Ask the analyst List of Figures Figure 1: Examples of departmental "siloing" in education Figure 2: Complex data relationships require more sophisticated analysis tools