Confidential R1 University

The Challenge

A large, public R1 institution sought to develop a comprehensive data strategy which would build their capacity to manage and utilize data strategically. They aimed to establish effective data governance, apply appropriate data frameworks, and build a culture of data literacy to transform data into meaningful insights. This being the university’s first foray into establishing a data strategy, they sought expert advice to help guide the team through the process and bring the strategy to fruition.

Our Approach

The university enlisted Vantage experts in data strategy and management best practices to provide advisory support, helping them navigate the complexities of data strategy development.

Our approach included:

• Conducting peer conversations with similar universities to benchmark best practices and identify gaps.
• Facilitating focus groups with those leading the data strategy effort as well as institutional constituents, and using the results to conduct analyses and develop themes.
• Offering recommendations for data governance principles to serve as the foundation for their strategy.
• Reviewing and providing constructive feedback on the strategy as it developed, ensuring it effectively articulated the university’s approach to data.

Rather than delivering a one-size-fits-all roadmap, Vantage guided the university’s team in shaping their own approach. We provided structured recommendations, challenged assumptions, and facilitated productive discussions that helped refine their strategy.

The Outcome

Through our highly tailored process, Vantage helped bring together stakeholders from across the university who had not previously worked closely (or together at all), building bridges that resulted in a more unified approach to their data strategy. Our guidance helped them not only to come to a consensus around their data strategy, but also to create new communication channels and strengthen connections between stakeholders. The university team especially appreciated the insights gained from peer interviews, which helped them understand where they were on the right track and where there were opportunities for improvement.

Ultimately, Vantage’s involvement helped the university establish a strong framework that includes strategic goals, future policy development, and phased implementation. We helped them critically examine their processes and assumptions and arrive at a solution that matched their needs.

Vantage team leaders for this project included Cathy Bates, Senior Principal and Associate Partner, and Susan Featherston, Senior Strategic Consultant.

Need Help?

Whether you’re enhancing an existing data strategy or building from the ground up, our consultants can help your institution develop a strategy built for enhanced decision-making and long-term success.