Data-driven decision making, popularized in the 1980s and 1990s, is evolving into a vastly more sophisticated concept known as big data that relies on software approaches generally referred to as analytics. Big data and analytics for instructional applications are in their infancy and will take a few years to mature, although their presence is…

The authors describe the University of Central Florida's top-down/bottom-up action analytics approach to using data to inform decision-making at the University of Central Florida. The top-down approach utilizes information about programs, modalities, and college implementation of Web initiatives. The bottom-up approach continuously monitors…

The University Information Center has transformed data retrieval and reporting from a slow process performed by high-priced technical personnel to an instantaneous service performed by those who need and can define the service required. The result at Indiana University has been improved quality of computing. (Author/MLW)

Contrasts are made between application development strategies employed for online transaction processing and for decision support at the University of Hartford. Applications designed and implemented are described and current developments in the plan are discussed. (Author/MLW)