Improving Technology Infrastructure and Web-based Information and

ServicesNortheast Iowa Community College

PRP031A100024Christine Woodson, Project Director

Project Overview

Goal 1. Improve access to information and reporting capability

Train managers in new reporting software to extract and analyze data for more effective institutional decision-making

Goal 2. Improve distance learning quality and business efficiency

Reduce the gap between the enrollee success rate in distance learning classes and the institution-wide success rate

Goal 3. Update technology infrastructure for improved security and business efficiency

Upgrade current infrastructure, implement document imaging software, implement talent management software, expand wireless capacity, and develop new web-based services

Using Evaluative Data and Recommendations Implemented an annual evaluation process

conducted by Lighthouse Consulting, Inc., Mike Gaudette, which provides meaningful feedback to the project Steering Committee following annual on-site visits

Use of external evaluator encouraged institutional buy-in from stakeholders, especially in Year 1

Evaluator’s observations and suggestions are helpful when unexpected delays or challenges in implementation occur.

Evaluation includes overall assessment of project management, including Project director and key staff

NICC team preparation for evaluation site visit was useful to ensure ongoing data collection and documentation of progress toward achieving project objectives

Site visit, and subsequent written summary, serve as a guide for continuing effective practices and addressing areas for improvement

Sustainability and Strengthening the Institution

The evaluation process provided suggestions for additional project assessments that will assist NICC in fully institutionalizing the grant project beyond the scope of Title III funding

Identified opportunities to document the efficacy of project activities to justify reallocation of resources for institutionalization

Evaluator provided detailed assistance in identifying specific data and collection procedures to document quantitative measures of progress

Exit interview at end of site visit provided formative feedback and opportunity to begin immediate remediation of identified areas of concern

Availability of external evaluator 24/7 for questions has been beneficial to overall project management