--- title: Blog | Higher Education | Institutional Effectiveness | SPOL description: Visit SPOL's blog to learn more about how to improve institutional effectiveness in higher education. Topics include planning, budgeting, credentialing, assessment, and accreditation. --- [![SPOL](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/spol-blog-theme/images/logo.svg)](https://spol.com/) [![SPOL](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/spol-blog-theme/images/logo.svg)](https://spol.com/) - [Solutions](https://spol.com/solutions/) - [Planning](https://spol.com/solutions/planning-software-higher-ed/) - [Budgeting](https://spol.com/solutions/budget-software-higher-ed/) - [Assessment](https://spol.com/solutions/assessment-software-higher-ed/) - [Credentialing](https://spol.com/solutions/credentialing-software-higher-ed/) - [Accreditation](https://spol.com/solutions/accreditation-software-higher-ed/) - [About Us](https://spol.com/about-us/) - [Webinars](https://spol.com/webinars-spol/) - [Events](https://spol.com/events/) - [Blog](https://blog.spol.com/) [Request a Demo](https://spol.com/contact-us/) # SPOL Blog, Latest News, and Updates - [All](https://blog.spol.com) - [Institutional Effectiveness](https://blog.spol.com/tag/institutional-effectiveness) - [Accreditation](https://blog.spol.com/tag/accreditation) - [Assessment](https://blog.spol.com/tag/assessment) - [Continuous Improvement](https://blog.spol.com/tag/continuous-improvement) - [Strategic Planning](https://blog.spol.com/tag/strategic-planning) - [Budgeting](https://blog.spol.com/tag/budgeting) - [Institutional Excellence](https://blog.spol.com/tag/institutional-excellence) - [Integrated Strategic Planning](https://blog.spol.com/tag/integrated-strategic-planning) - [Faculty Credentialing](https://blog.spol.com/tag/faculty-credentialing) - [Insider](https://blog.spol.com/tag/insider) - [Program Review](https://blog.spol.com/tag/program-review) [![Higher education institution colleagues using SPOL Assessment to turn their activity into meaningful improvements.](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Assessment-1.png)](https://blog.spol.com/from-assessment-activity-to-meaningful-improvement) Oct 15, 2026, 9:00:01 AM ### [From Assessment Activity to Meaningful Improvement](https://blog.spol.com/from-assessment-activity-to-meaningful-improvement) Assessment creates a lot of visible activity across an institution. Outcomes are defined, measures are selected, data is collected, findings are ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/from-assessment-activity-to-meaningful-improvement) [![University higher education campus](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/17.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/when-everything-is-a-priority-what-should-higher-education-fund) Oct 12, 2026, 5:23:05 AM ### [When Everything Is a Priority, What Should Higher Education Fund?](https://blog.spol.com/when-everything-is-a-priority-what-should-higher-education-fund) There is no shortage of worthwhile things for a college or university to invest in. Student success initiatives, new academic programs, technology, ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/when-everything-is-a-priority-what-should-higher-education-fund) [![SPOL](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/LinkedIn%20Event%20Header.png)](https://blog.spol.com/spol-expands-portfolio-through-acquisition-of-weaves-institutional-effectiveness-product) Oct 1, 2026, 9:00:03 AM ### [SPOL Expands Portfolio Through Acquisition of Weave's Institutional Effectiveness Product](https://blog.spol.com/spol-expands-portfolio-through-acquisition-of-weaves-institutional-effectiveness-product) SPOL Welcomes the Institutional Effectiveness Community and Reinforces Its Commitment to Innovation, Partnership, and Continuous Improvement [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/spol-expands-portfolio-through-acquisition-of-weaves-institutional-effectiveness-product) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/ChatGPT%20Image%20Sep%2030%2c%202026%2c%2012_44_33%20PM.png)](https://blog.spol.com/to-outcome-or-not-to-outcome-exploring-the-benefits-of-lms-outcomes-and-their-role-in-a-connected-assessment-strategy) Oct 1, 2026, 8:39:24 AM ### [To Outcome or Not to Outcome? Exploring the Benefits of LMS Outcomes and Their Role in a Connected Assessment Strategy](https://blog.spol.com/to-outcome-or-not-to-outcome-exploring-the-benefits-of-lms-outcomes-and-their-role-in-a-connected-assessment-strategy) For institutions of higher education, the Learning Management System (LMS) has become an integral part of the teaching and learning experience. From ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/to-outcome-or-not-to-outcome-exploring-the-benefits-of-lms-outcomes-and-their-role-in-a-connected-assessment-strategy) [![Higher education institution colleagues using SPOL Budgeting to connect their budgets to strategies. ](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Budgeting.png)](https://blog.spol.com/connecting-budgets-to-strategy-making-resource-decisions-with-greater-purpose) Oct 1, 2026, 8:09:04 AM ### [Connecting Budgets to Strategy: Making Resource Decisions With Greater Purpose](https://blog.spol.com/connecting-budgets-to-strategy-making-resource-decisions-with-greater-purpose) Every budget cycle asks institutions to make choices. [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/connecting-budgets-to-strategy-making-resource-decisions-with-greater-purpose) [![Students working in campus labs](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/65%20(1).webp)](https://blog.spol.com/when-does-a-strategic-plan-become-strategy) Sep 30, 2026, 10:44:23 AM ### [When Does a Strategic Plan Become Strategy?](https://blog.spol.com/when-does-a-strategic-plan-become-strategy) Few colleges or universities would question the importance of strategic planning. Considerable institutional effort goes into establishing ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/when-does-a-strategic-plan-become-strategy) [![Higher Education Institution Colleagues using SPOL Planning to keep their institutional priorities active](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Planning-1.png)](https://blog.spol.com/from-strategic-plans-to-proven-progress-keeping-institutional-priorities-active) Sep 16, 2026, 9:00:07 AM ### [From Strategic Plans to Proven Progress: Keeping Institutional Priorities Active](https://blog.spol.com/from-strategic-plans-to-proven-progress-keeping-institutional-priorities-active) A strategic plan usually begins with momentum. Leaders agree on priorities, teams contribute ideas, goals are refined, and the finished plan gives ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/from-strategic-plans-to-proven-progress-keeping-institutional-priorities-active) [![Institution colleagues using SPOL for planning, budgeting, assessment, credentialing, and accreditation.](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Image%2012.png)](https://blog.spol.com/five-modules-one-connected-platform-understanding-the-spol-portfolio) Sep 9, 2026, 9:00:02 AM ### [Five Modules, One Connected Platform: Understanding the SPOL Portfolio](https://blog.spol.com/five-modules-one-connected-platform-understanding-the-spol-portfolio) No two institutions arrive at the same challenge in the same way. One may be trying to keep a new strategic plan active after launch, while another ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/five-modules-one-connected-platform-understanding-the-spol-portfolio) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Back%20to%20SPOL.jpeg)](https://blog.spol.com/back-to-spol-start-the-academic-year-ready) Sep 3, 2026, 10:57:22 AM ### [Back to SPOL: Start the Academic Year Ready](https://blog.spol.com/back-to-spol-start-the-academic-year-ready) The beginning of a new academic year brings renewed energy to campus, but it also brings a long list of processes back into motion. Strategic plans ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/back-to-spol-start-the-academic-year-ready) [![AI and vibe coding in Higher Education](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/shutterstock_2694164209-1.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/vibe-coding-in-higher-education-risks-costs-responsibilities) Sep 3, 2026, 10:25:03 AM ### [Vibe Coding in Higher Education: Risks, Costs & Responsibilities](https://blog.spol.com/vibe-coding-in-higher-education-risks-costs-responsibilities) AI is changing how quickly an idea can become a working piece of software. [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/vibe-coding-in-higher-education-risks-costs-responsibilities) [![Students working on university campus](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/26%20(2).webp)](https://blog.spol.com/creating-the-conditions-for-innovation-in-higher-education) Aug 21, 2026, 1:18:47 PM ### [Creating the Conditions for Innovation in Higher Education](https://blog.spol.com/creating-the-conditions-for-innovation-in-higher-education) Higher education is constantly evolving. Today, that evolution feels faster, more complex and far less predictable than it did even a few years ago. [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/creating-the-conditions-for-innovation-in-higher-education) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Image%204.png)](https://blog.spol.com/from-activity-to-proof-how-higher-education-institutions-can-demonstrate-meaningful-progress) Aug 19, 2026, 9:00:01 AM ### [From Activity to Proof: How Higher Education Institutions Can Demonstrate Meaningful Progress](https://blog.spol.com/from-activity-to-proof-how-higher-education-institutions-can-demonstrate-meaningful-progress) On any given campus, a lot is happening at once. [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/from-activity-to-proof-how-higher-education-institutions-can-demonstrate-meaningful-progress) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/homegrown.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/the-hidden-costs-of-homegrown-systems-for-planning-assessment-and-accreditation) Aug 6, 2026, 8:44:20 AM ### [The Hidden Costs of Homegrown Systems for Planning, Assessment, and Accreditation](https://blog.spol.com/the-hidden-costs-of-homegrown-systems-for-planning-assessment-and-accreditation) For many colleges and universities, a homegrown solution for Planning, Assessment, and Accreditation seems like the practical choice. Built ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/the-hidden-costs-of-homegrown-systems-for-planning-assessment-and-accreditation) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/professional%20services.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/more-than-an-implementation-how-spol-professional-services-supports-your-success) Jul 6, 2026, 7:45:52 AM ### [More Than an Implementation: How SPOL Professional Services Supports Your Success](https://blog.spol.com/more-than-an-implementation-how-spol-professional-services-supports-your-success) Implementing a new institutional effectiveness platform is about more than deploying software. It's about creating a strong foundation for long-term ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/more-than-an-implementation-how-spol-professional-services-supports-your-success) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Details%20Difference.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/the-details-that-make-the-difference) Jun 3, 2026, 3:47:18 PM ### [The Details That Make the Difference](https://blog.spol.com/the-details-that-make-the-difference) Exploring the customizable features that help SPOL adapt to your institution. [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/the-details-that-make-the-difference) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/AI_May26-1.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/walking-the-line-between-innovation-and-integrity-ai-higher-education-and-the-future-of-institutional-effectiveness) May 12, 2026, 3:14:42 PM ### [Walking the Line Between Innovation and Integrity: AI, Higher Education, and the Future of Institutional Effectiveness](https://blog.spol.com/walking-the-line-between-innovation-and-integrity-ai-higher-education-and-the-future-of-institutional-effectiveness) Artificial Intelligence is no longer some distant concept hovering on the horizon of software development. It is here, and it is quickly becoming a ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/walking-the-line-between-innovation-and-integrity-ai-higher-education-and-the-future-of-institutional-effectiveness) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/V6-1.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/the-process-of-change-lessons-from-spols-redesign) Apr 2, 2026, 11:24:22 AM ### [The Process of Change: Lessons from SPOL’s Redesign](https://blog.spol.com/the-process-of-change-lessons-from-spols-redesign) Change is often discussed as a goal, but in practice, it is a structured process that requires intentional planning, broad engagement, and habitual ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/the-process-of-change-lessons-from-spols-redesign) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Bridge-1.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/bridging-the-strategic-planning-spectrum) Mar 4, 2026, 12:07:44 PM ### [Bridging the Strategic Planning Spectrum](https://blog.spol.com/bridging-the-strategic-planning-spectrum) Strategic planning in higher education often falls somewhere along a wide spectrum. On one end are institutions with deeply complex strategic plans. ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/bridging-the-strategic-planning-spectrum) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Accreditation.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-readiness-is-a-living-process) Feb 5, 2026, 8:45:23 AM ### [Accreditation Readiness is a Living Process](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-readiness-is-a-living-process) Accreditation is often described as a cycle. [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-readiness-is-a-living-process) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/cgecklist-1.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/vendor-reflections-on-institutional-readiness-and-solution-selection) Jan 8, 2026, 9:21:07 AM ### [Vendor Reflections on Institutional Readiness and Solution Selection](https://blog.spol.com/vendor-reflections-on-institutional-readiness-and-solution-selection) Purchasing new software is rarely just a matter of comparing features or pricing. In higher education, successful implementation depends just as much ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/vendor-reflections-on-institutional-readiness-and-solution-selection) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/academic-south-3.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/embracing-technology-to-foster-growth-and-build-consistency) Dec 3, 2025, 9:23:32 AM ### [Embracing Technology to Foster Growth and Build Consistency](https://blog.spol.com/embracing-technology-to-foster-growth-and-build-consistency) In higher education, growth and consistency are not competing priorities. They are deeply interconnected goals that depend on an institution’s ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/embracing-technology-to-foster-growth-and-build-consistency) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Webinar_Oct.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/simplifying-the-complexity-of-general-education-assessment) Nov 5, 2025, 12:53:53 PM ### [Simplifying the Complexity of General Education Assessment](https://blog.spol.com/simplifying-the-complexity-of-general-education-assessment) Assessing General Education (Gen Ed) outcomes has always been one of higher education’s most intricate challenges. Institutions must gather data from ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/simplifying-the-complexity-of-general-education-assessment) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Planning_Assess.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/one-platform-two-purposes-integrating-assessment-and-planning-for-institutional-growth) Oct 7, 2025, 4:04:37 PM ### [One Platform, Two Purposes: Integrating Assessment and Planning for Institutional Growth](https://blog.spol.com/one-platform-two-purposes-integrating-assessment-and-planning-for-institutional-growth) Across higher education, many institutions face a familiar challenge: disconnected systems that make it difficult to see the bigger picture. When ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/one-platform-two-purposes-integrating-assessment-and-planning-for-institutional-growth) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/istockphoto-1429274633-612x612.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/grant-tracking-0) Sep 4, 2025, 9:14:34 AM ### [Innovating Grant Tracking Through the Planning Module](https://blog.spol.com/grant-tracking-0) Managing grants is often a balancing act between accountability, transparency, and alignment with institutional priorities. At the Community College ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/grant-tracking-0) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Webinars/state-and-future-higher-education-webinar-6.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/embracing-change-challenges-and-innovations-in-higher-education) Aug 7, 2025, 10:18:10 AM ### [Embracing Change: Challenges and Innovations in Higher Education](https://blog.spol.com/embracing-change-challenges-and-innovations-in-higher-education) The landscape of higher education is shifting rapidly, and institutions must evolve to meet the demands of a changing world. In our July webinar, Dr. ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/embracing-change-challenges-and-innovations-in-higher-education) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Course%20to%20Program.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/from-compliance-to-clarity-one-institutions-shift-to-program-level-assessment) Jul 2, 2025, 8:16:01 AM ### [From Compliance to Clarity: One Institution’s Shift to Program-Level Assessment](https://blog.spol.com/from-compliance-to-clarity-one-institutions-shift-to-program-level-assessment) When Dr. Tammy Russell and Barb Murk from their institution’s Office of Institutional Planning, Assessment, and Research realized their course-level ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/from-compliance-to-clarity-one-institutions-shift-to-program-level-assessment) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/End-User%20Training.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/case-study-a-strategic-approach-to-large-scale-end-user-training) May 23, 2025, 10:17:36 AM ### [Case Study: A Strategic Approach to Large-Scale End-User Training](https://blog.spol.com/case-study-a-strategic-approach-to-large-scale-end-user-training) When a large public university set out to implement SPOL as its central platform for strategic planning, its leadership knew that successful adoption ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/case-study-a-strategic-approach-to-large-scale-end-user-training) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/End%20User-1.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/spol-end-user-training0) May 1, 2025, 8:48:30 AM ### [End-User Training: SPOL’s On-Site and Large-Scale Virtual Options](https://blog.spol.com/spol-end-user-training0) Successfully implementing a new software solution requires more than just configuration—it takes thoughtful, well-executed training that equips your ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/spol-end-user-training0) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Nurse.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/ccne-cnea-acen-0-1) Apr 3, 2025, 8:20:37 AM ### [Simplifying Compliance: Faculty Roster Templates for CCNE, CNEA, and ACEN](https://blog.spol.com/ccne-cnea-acen-0-1) [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/ccne-cnea-acen-0-1) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Import%20Pic.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/import-best-practices-1) Mar 13, 2025, 1:45:47 PM ### [Mastering Data Management in SPOL: Best Practices for Smooth Imports](https://blog.spol.com/import-best-practices-1) [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/import-best-practices-1) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Knosters%20Model%20.webp)](https://blog.spol.com/applying-knosters-model-to-spol-implementation) Feb 13, 2025, 10:00:00 AM ### [Applying Knoster’s Model to SPOL Implementation](https://blog.spol.com/applying-knosters-model-to-spol-implementation) Vision: Aligning SPOL with Institutional Goals [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/applying-knosters-model-to-spol-implementation) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/ZBB-1.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/zero-based-budgeting-with-spol-a-step-up-in-financial-planning) Jan 9, 2025, 10:28:53 AM ### [Zero-Based Budgeting with SPOL: A Step up in Financial Planning](https://blog.spol.com/zero-based-budgeting-with-spol-a-step-up-in-financial-planning) Zero-based budgeting (ZBB) has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to drive financial accountability and strategic alignment. Unlike ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/zero-based-budgeting-with-spol-a-step-up-in-financial-planning) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/DALL%C2%B7E%202024-11-14%2013.18.23%20-%20A%20modern%20and%20minimalistic%20illustration%20representing%20the%20concept%20of%20data%20import%20options%20in%20software%2c%20focusing%20on%20CSV%20template%20import%20vs.%20manual%20entry.%20.webp)](https://blog.spol.com/importing-data-to-spol-csv-templates-vs.-manual-entry) Nov 14, 2024, 1:56:45 PM ### [Importing Data to SPOL: CSV Templates vs. Manual Entry](https://blog.spol.com/importing-data-to-spol-csv-templates-vs.-manual-entry) As educational institutions increasingly rely on data to drive decision-making, effectively managing and organizing information has become essential. ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/importing-data-to-spol-csv-templates-vs.-manual-entry) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/assessment%20blog.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/your-student-learning-or-institutional-assessment-process) Oct 17, 2024, 12:22:42 PM ### [Your Student Learning or Institutional Assessment Process](https://blog.spol.com/your-student-learning-or-institutional-assessment-process) Every institution's approach to student learning and institutional assessment is unique, and shaped by its mission, resources, and educational ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/your-student-learning-or-institutional-assessment-process) [![Checklist ](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Checklist.jpg.webp)](https://blog.spol.com/what-to-look-for-when-choosing-an-ie-solution-key-factors-for-success) Sep 12, 2024, 11:42:21 AM ### [What to Look for When Choosing an IE Solution: Key Factors for Success](https://blog.spol.com/what-to-look-for-when-choosing-an-ie-solution-key-factors-for-success) When choosing an Institutional Effectiveness (IE) solution for your institution, the decision isn’t just about finding software with flashy features. ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/what-to-look-for-when-choosing-an-ie-solution-key-factors-for-success) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/online-certification.jpeg.webp)](https://blog.spol.com/understanding-spols-commitment-to-security-tx-ramp-hecvat-and-beyond) Aug 21, 2024, 12:31:04 PM ### [Understanding SPOL’s Commitment to Security: TX-RAMP, HECVAT, and Beyond](https://blog.spol.com/understanding-spols-commitment-to-security-tx-ramp-hecvat-and-beyond) In today's digital landscape, ensuring the security of data and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards is paramount for any organization. ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/understanding-spols-commitment-to-security-tx-ramp-hecvat-and-beyond) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/artificial-intelligence-1920.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/leveraging-ai-for-institutional-research-and-effectiveness) Jul 19, 2024, 9:28:25 AM ### [Leveraging AI for Institutional Research and Effectiveness](https://blog.spol.com/leveraging-ai-for-institutional-research-and-effectiveness) Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various sectors, and higher education is no exception. This blog post is the first installment of a ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/leveraging-ai-for-institutional-research-and-effectiveness) [![Faculty](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/sacscoc_image_spol.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/encouraging-faculty-involvement-in-the-credentialing-process-empowering-your-team-with-spol) Jun 27, 2024, 9:00:19 AM ### [Encouraging Faculty Involvement in the Credentialing Process: Empowering Your Team with SPOL](https://blog.spol.com/encouraging-faculty-involvement-in-the-credentialing-process-empowering-your-team-with-spol) In the realm of educational administration, few tasks are as crucial and yet potentially daunting as ensuring the smooth operation of credentialing ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/encouraging-faculty-involvement-in-the-credentialing-process-empowering-your-team-with-spol) [![TRAINING](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/AdobeStock_610553627-1.jpeg)](https://blog.spol.com/maximizing-success-with-spol-strategies-for-sustaining-momentum-in-your-training-journey) May 30, 2024, 11:47:44 AM ### [Maximizing Success with SPOL: Strategies for Sustaining Momentum in Your Training Journey](https://blog.spol.com/maximizing-success-with-spol-strategies-for-sustaining-momentum-in-your-training-journey) As you embark on the journey of implementing or re-engaging with SPOL, it is important to understand the importance of maintaining momentum ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/maximizing-success-with-spol-strategies-for-sustaining-momentum-in-your-training-journey) [![Innovating Program Reviews](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/AdobeStock_566542827.jpeg)](https://blog.spol.com/program-reviews) Apr 30, 2024, 3:38:09 PM ### [Innovating Program Reviews: A Stress-Free Approach with SPOL](https://blog.spol.com/program-reviews) Program reviews are essential for assessing the effectiveness and quality of educational programs in academic institutions. However, the traditional ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/program-reviews) [![Balance in strategic planning](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/AdobeStock_140806565.jpeg)](https://blog.spol.com/striking-a-balance-in-strategic-planning) Mar 27, 2024, 3:53:34 PM ### [Striking a Balance: Navigating Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approaches in Strategic Planning](https://blog.spol.com/striking-a-balance-in-strategic-planning) In higher education, strategic planning serves as the compass guiding institutions toward continuous improvement to ensure the growth and progress of ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/striking-a-balance-in-strategic-planning) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/topmsche.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/three-strategies-for-faculty-engagement-in-program-learning-assessment) Feb 29, 2024, 3:32:53 PM ### [Insights from Experts: 3 Strategies for Faculty Engagement in Assessment](https://blog.spol.com/three-strategies-for-faculty-engagement-in-program-learning-assessment) Engaging faculty in program learning assessment is a critical aspect of fostering a robust institutional culture focused on meaningful student ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/three-strategies-for-faculty-engagement-in-program-learning-assessment) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/cordance2.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/cordance-completes-acquisition-of-spol) Jul 26, 2022, 4:29:08 PM ### [Cordance Completes Acquisition of SPOL](https://blog.spol.com/cordance-completes-acquisition-of-spol) Cordance today announced its acquisition of Strategic Planning Online LLC. (SPOL) of Coral Springs, Florida. This new relationship will allow SPOL ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/cordance-completes-acquisition-of-spol) [![Integrated Planning SPOL image ](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/blogintegrated.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/integrated-strategic-planning-and-its-impact-on-accreditation) Jul 15, 2021, 4:58:18 PM ### [Integrated Strategic Planning and its Impact on Accreditation](https://blog.spol.com/integrated-strategic-planning-and-its-impact-on-accreditation) Institutions of Higher Education (IHE) produce inspiring vision and mission statements, strategic plans, academic master plans, strategic enrollment ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/integrated-strategic-planning-and-its-impact-on-accreditation) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/barriers.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/barriers-to-implementation-of-best-practices) May 25, 2021, 4:10:02 PM ### [Barriers to Implementation of Best Practices](https://blog.spol.com/barriers-to-implementation-of-best-practices) Have you ever dreamed of a solution to your Institutional Effectiveness (IE) challenges, but then realized that there are institutional barriers to ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/barriers-to-implementation-of-best-practices) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/rethinking-image.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/rethinking-quailty) Nov 23, 2020, 3:25:09 PM ### [Rethinking Quality](https://blog.spol.com/rethinking-quailty) As academic departments work to create rubrics and other measurement tools, defining “quality” at the student performance level is especially ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/rethinking-quailty) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/blogpostworkathome.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/planning-beyond-campus) Oct 23, 2020, 2:24:54 PM ### [Planning Beyond the Campus](https://blog.spol.com/planning-beyond-campus) The COVID pandemic threw institutions worldwide for a loop in 2020. It’s safe to say that every higher education institution, small or large, private ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/planning-beyond-campus) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Faculty%20Credentialing%20in%20Times%20of%20COVID.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/faculty-credentialing-in-a-virtual-world) May 15, 2020, 12:15:30 PM ### [Faculty Credentialing in a Virtual World](https://blog.spol.com/faculty-credentialing-in-a-virtual-world) Verifying faculty credentialing is an essential part of any institutional or programmatic process, as it ensures that any individual instructor is ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/faculty-credentialing-in-a-virtual-world) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Higher%20Ed%20Assessment%20COVID-19.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/moving-student-assessment-online-optimal-learning-outcomes) Apr 28, 2020, 10:00:00 AM ### [Moving Student Assessment Online to Deliver Optimal Learning Outcomes](https://blog.spol.com/moving-student-assessment-online-optimal-learning-outcomes) In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, institutions have quickly adopted online learning environments. The move online promotes social distance and ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/moving-student-assessment-online-optimal-learning-outcomes) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Budgeting%20and%20Funding%20Higher%20Ed%20COVID-19.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/higher-ed-resource-allocation-during-and-after-covid-19) Apr 21, 2020, 10:00:00 AM ### [Proactive Approaches to Resource Allocation During and After COVID-19](https://blog.spol.com/higher-ed-resource-allocation-during-and-after-covid-19) Pivoting resources to respond to change, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is essential for today’s higher education institutions. Not only must your ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/higher-ed-resource-allocation-during-and-after-covid-19) [![Business Continuity Higher Education COVID-19](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Business%20Continuity%20in%20Higher%20Ed%20COVID-19.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/higher-education-business-continuity-during-covid-19) Apr 14, 2020, 11:42:13 AM ### [Higher Education: Maintaining Business Continuity During COVID-19](https://blog.spol.com/higher-education-business-continuity-during-covid-19) The COVID-19 pandemic has palpably reshaped lives and businesses. Higher education, in particular, has found itself pivoting rapidly to ensure ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/higher-education-business-continuity-during-covid-19) [![](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/willian-justen-de-vasconcellos-hPcF0UCpNhs-unsplash.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/spol-implementation-north-dakota-university-system) Jan 23, 2020, 5:22:12 PM ### [How North Dakota University System Implemented SPOL](https://blog.spol.com/spol-implementation-north-dakota-university-system) A toolkit introduced to the North Dakota University System’s 11 public colleges and universities has taken a few steps forward. According to Ryan ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/spol-implementation-north-dakota-university-system) [![k-mitch-hodge-oIPMwJFd-t0-unsplash smaller](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Regional%20Accreditor%20Expectations%20for%20Assessment.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/what-do-regional-accreditors-expect-for-assessment) Dec 12, 2019, 4:53:27 PM ### [What do Regional Accreditors Expect for Assessment?](https://blog.spol.com/what-do-regional-accreditors-expect-for-assessment) Many times, when we are examining our institution’s assessment processes, we find ourselves asking the question, “What does our regional accrediting ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/what-do-regional-accreditors-expect-for-assessment) [![MSCHEblog](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/MSCHEblog.png)](https://blog.spol.com/msche-accreditation-preparing-for-your-onsite-visit) Nov 26, 2019, 5:34:04 PM ### [MSCHE Accreditation: Preparing for Your Onsite Visit](https://blog.spol.com/msche-accreditation-preparing-for-your-onsite-visit) So, your institution has an upcoming reaffirmation of accreditation with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)? Here are some tips ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/msche-accreditation-preparing-for-your-onsite-visit) [![assessblog](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/social-suggested-images/assessblog.png)](https://blog.spol.com/assessment-in-higher-education-10-things-to-know) Oct 31, 2019, 2:10:50 PM ### [Assessment in Higher Education: 10 Things to Know](https://blog.spol.com/assessment-in-higher-education-10-things-to-know) Assessment practices in higher education directly impact many aspects of the institution. This can include student success and continuous ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/assessment-in-higher-education-10-things-to-know) [![valentin-lacoste-na1Lad1QED0-unsplash](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/social-suggested-images/valentin-lacoste-na1Lad1QED0-unsplash.png)](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-in-higher-education-ten-things-to-know) Sep 23, 2019, 12:04:53 PM ### [Accreditation in Higher Education: 10 Things to Know](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-in-higher-education-ten-things-to-know) Accreditation for institutions of higher education is essential for ensuring that your students are successful in their chosen career paths and for ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-in-higher-education-ten-things-to-know) [![diego-ph-fIq0tET6llw-unsplash tinypng](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/diego-ph-fIq0tET6llw-unsplash%20tinypng.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/strategic-planning-in-higher-education-10-things-to-know) Aug 15, 2019, 11:54:20 AM ### [Strategic Planning in Higher Education: 10 Things to Know](https://blog.spol.com/strategic-planning-in-higher-education-10-things-to-know) Strategic planning can shape the future of a higher education institution, from effectively managing budgeted funds to driving continuous improvement ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/strategic-planning-in-higher-education-10-things-to-know) [![ross-sneddon-d-66ejdDbPk-unsplash small](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/ross-sneddon-d-66ejdDbPk-unsplash%20small.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/what-is-institutional-accreditation) Jul 9, 2019, 1:57:24 PM ### [What is Institutional Accreditation?](https://blog.spol.com/what-is-institutional-accreditation) Institutional accreditation is an assurance that an institution of higher education meets a series of quality standards. Accreditation standards ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/what-is-institutional-accreditation) [![ken-theimer-733559-unsplash web](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Programmatic%20Accreditation.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/what-is-program-accreditation) Jun 3, 2019, 10:10:00 AM ### [What is Program Accreditation?](https://blog.spol.com/what-is-program-accreditation) Program accreditation (also called specialized accreditation) is a type of accreditation that is focused on professional preparation programs within ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/what-is-program-accreditation) [![andrew-neel-308138-unsplash tinypng](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/assessment%20of%20administrative%20and%20support%20units.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/assessment-of-administrative-units-and-support-services) May 6, 2019, 5:23:40 PM ### [Assessment of Administrative Units and Support Services](https://blog.spol.com/assessment-of-administrative-units-and-support-services) Each institution generally has the flexibility to define its administrative and support departments as it sees fit. A good starting point is to ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/assessment-of-administrative-units-and-support-services) [![beatriz-perez-moya-111685-unsplash tinypng](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/beatriz-perez-moya-111685-unsplash%20tinypng.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/hlc-accreditation-preparing-for-your-onsite-visit) Apr 2, 2019, 3:49:15 PM ### [HLC Accreditation: Preparing for Your Onsite Visit](https://blog.spol.com/hlc-accreditation-preparing-for-your-onsite-visit) So, your institution has an upcoming reaffirmation of accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)? You’re in good company: the Higher ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/hlc-accreditation-preparing-for-your-onsite-visit) [![rawpixel-1130146-unsplash](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/rawpixel-1130146-unsplash.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/assessing-student-learning-outcomes-which-methods-are-most-successful) Mar 7, 2019, 3:31:21 PM ### [Assessing Student Learning Outcomes: Which Methods Are Most Successful?](https://blog.spol.com/assessing-student-learning-outcomes-which-methods-are-most-successful) There are many ways in which we can assess how well our programs are reaching their goals or outcomes. If we are trying to assess non-learning ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/assessing-student-learning-outcomes-which-methods-are-most-successful) [![rawpixel-665349-unsplash](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/rawpixel-665349-unsplash.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/assessment-and-continuous-improvement-in-higher-education) Feb 13, 2019, 7:12:00 AM ### [Assessment and Continuous Improvement in Higher Education](https://blog.spol.com/assessment-and-continuous-improvement-in-higher-education) It was more than a decade ago that the field of higher education started to focus on assessment. Educators were asking questions about what, and how ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/assessment-and-continuous-improvement-in-higher-education) [![rawpixel-701117-unsplash tinypng](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/elements%20of%20a%20strategic%20plan.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/top-six-elements-higher-ed-strategic-planning) Jan 7, 2019, 3:25:17 PM ### [Top Six Elements of a Strategic Plan](https://blog.spol.com/top-six-elements-higher-ed-strategic-planning) Developing or updating a strategic plan for an institution of higher education is a substantial endeavor. Engaging colleagues in committee and ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/top-six-elements-higher-ed-strategic-planning) [![michael-d-beckwith-625341-unsplash](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/michael-d-beckwith-625341-unsplash.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/comparing-institutional-effectiveness-standards-part-ii) Nov 8, 2018, 11:37:00 AM ### [Comparing Institutional Effectiveness Standards, Part II](https://blog.spol.com/comparing-institutional-effectiveness-standards-part-ii) In our last post, we talked about what the seven accreditation regions in the U.S. have in common in terms of their standards regarding institutional ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/comparing-institutional-effectiveness-standards-part-ii) [![agence-olloweb-520953-unsplash](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Institutional%20Effectiveness%20Standards%20for%20Higher%20Education.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/comparing-institutional-effectiveness-standards-part-i) Nov 1, 2018, 11:27:41 AM ### [Comparing Institutional Effectiveness Standards, Part I](https://blog.spol.com/comparing-institutional-effectiveness-standards-part-i) I had the opportunity to present a webinar to the members of OCAIR (Overseas Chinese Association for Institutional Research, https://ocair.org/). The ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/comparing-institutional-effectiveness-standards-part-i) [![aman-bhargava-272763-unsplash](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/institutional%20effectiveness.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/the-role-of-spol-in-a-wavering-higher-education-budget-climate) Aug 31, 2018, 10:53:00 AM ### [The Role of SPOL in a Wavering Higher Education Budget Climate](https://blog.spol.com/the-role-of-spol-in-a-wavering-higher-education-budget-climate) As a professional in a field that serves higher education institutions daily, few things are more evident than the wavering budget climate in higher ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/the-role-of-spol-in-a-wavering-higher-education-budget-climate) [![john-towner-126924-unsplash](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/john-towner-126924-unsplash.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/institutional-excellence-5-simple-keys-to-success) Aug 30, 2018, 11:23:00 AM ### [Institutional Excellence - 5 Simple Keys To Success](https://blog.spol.com/institutional-excellence-5-simple-keys-to-success) The pursuit of institutional excellence is a school-wide commitment involving many dedicated stakeholders aligned by a common vision of continuous ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/institutional-excellence-5-simple-keys-to-success) [![sharon-mccutcheon-532782-unsplash](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Higher%20Education.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-process-higher-education) Aug 29, 2018, 5:02:00 PM ### [How to Establish a Solid Accreditation Process for Higher Education](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-process-higher-education) One of the most common questions I get from folks implementing is, "How would you suggest we set that up?" I must always answer that question with ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-process-higher-education) [![iStock-490671416-588782-edited](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/iStock-490671416-588782-edited.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-death-and-taxes) Aug 28, 2018, 3:08:22 PM ### [Accreditation, Death, and Taxes](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-death-and-taxes) A well-known phrase tossed around about life, particularly among baby-boomers is: “There are two things in life that are certain – Death and Taxes!” ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/accreditation-death-and-taxes) [![stephen-bergin-214607-unsplash](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/Higher%20Education%20Continuous%20Improvement.jpg)](https://blog.spol.com/benefits-of-continuous-improvement-higher-education) Aug 27, 2018, 3:00:34 PM ### [Higher Education: The Benefits of Continuous Improvement](https://blog.spol.com/benefits-of-continuous-improvement-higher-education) If your experience is anything like mine, convincing your colleagues to embrace continuous improvement feels like an uphill battle. It feels like ... [Read more →](https://blog.spol.com/benefits-of-continuous-improvement-higher-education) ## Subscribe to the SPOL blog [![SPOL](https://blog.spol.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/spol-blog-theme/images/logo-white.svg)](https://spol.com/) SPOL helps colleges and universities connect planning, budgeting, assessment, credentialing, and accreditation in one system — turning institutional work into documented, defensible progress. - [954-345-7839](tel:9543457839) - [info@spol.com](mailto:info@spol.com) - 5411 N University Drive, Suite 203, Coral Springs, FL ### Solutions - [All Solutions](https://spol.com/solutions/) - [Planning](https://spol.com/solutions/planning-software-higher-ed/) - [Assessment](https://spol.com/solutions/assessment-software-higher-ed/) - [Program Review](https://spol.com/solutions/assessment-software-higher-ed/program-review/) - [Credentialing](https://spol.com/solutions/credentialing-software-higher-ed/) - [Accreditation](https://spol.com/solutions/accreditation-software-higher-ed/) - [Budgeting](https://spol.com/solutions/budget-software-higher-ed/) ### Company - [About Us](https://spol.com/about-us/) - [Contact Us](https://spol.com/contact-us/) ### Resources - [Webinars](https://spol.com/webinars-spol/) - [Events](https://spol.com/events/) - [Blog](https://blog.spol.com/) - [Video Library](https://spol.com/video-library/) © 2026 SPOL, a business unit of Cordance Operations LLC. 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