The way that a college can transform its periodic self-study process into an ongoing program is addressed, with a focus on the contribution of the institutional research office. Also considered are data elements that self-studies most often require and the way that data elements relate to judgments and interpretations made through the self-study. Three types of data elements are needed to describe the institution, its resources, and resource utilization. Institutional descriptors include: type of institution, institutional control, type of school calendar, accrediting agencies, level of degrees or certificates, formal full-time credit hour load, student charges, and programs offered. Resources most commonly assessed include faculty, facilities, equipment, collections, computers, finances, and students. An inventory of the most common data elements utilized to measure resources is provided. Several important measures describing resource utilization that relate to faculty, finances, and students are also listed. Specific indicators that provide facts about resources and help monitor changes are identified, including calculation formulas. Suggestions about how an institutional research office can support a self-study program are included, along with a list of references on self-study. (SW)