Data-Informed Decision Making

Few would dispute that decisions about resource allocation are made with an institution’s mission in and strategic plan in mind. These decisions are also informed by a number of factors ranging from institutional culture to demonstrated need.

Satisfaction data, acquired through surveys, is one source of information that is well suited for the purpose of identifying areas where an institution is functioning below an optimum level vis-à-vis the experience of stakeholders, and by extension may need of a shift in resources.

If you are making decisions based on satisfaction data that look like this, STOP!

This one-dimensional analysis of satisfaction data can be misleading for resource allocation decisions. This occurs when the weakest aspects, in terms of satisfaction, are not the key drivers of overall satisfaction with the institution.

If the goal is to improve overall satisfaction in your organization, you need to concentrate on those aspects that are both lower in satisfaction and higher in terms of importance to overall satisfaction. 

If you are using survey data to inform decision making, but aren’t using Priority Action Grids, reach out for a conversation about how I can help you get the most out of your data.