Coherence and Continuous Improvement

As an institution, we are interested in how effective we are at achieving our mission, vision, and goals. There are three key processes that can inform of us about our effectiveness: assessment, strategic planning and integrated program review. Let's take a look at the relationship between these three processes, and how they fit together to inform continuous improvement efforts. By getting a better understanding of these relationships, it can help us to build better coherence in our work.

  • Assessment - This process involves evaluating the effectiveness and outcomes of various programs, processes and/or initiatives. It provides data and insights on what is working well and what may need improvement.
  • Strategic planning - This is a process of defining an organization's direction, and making decisions on allocating resources to pursue strategies that will work toward achieving this direction. It uses the data from assessments to set goals, priorities, and action plans.
  • Program review - This is a systematic evaluation of a program's effectiveness, efficiency, and alignment with strategic goals. It often uses assessment data to inform decisions about program modification and improvements.

In essence, assessment provides the data, strategic planning uses the data to set goals and directions, and program review ensures that programs are aligned with these goals and are effective. They form a continuous cycle of improvement and alignment within an organization. The more cohesive these processes are, the better informed we will be at understanding where we can make changes for continuous improvement.

 

Creating Coherence for Success

Welcome to "Creating Coherence for Success." This periodic publication provides updates regarding best practices for planning and effectiveness, professional development opportunities, events, important dates, and other points of interest. We hope you find what we share to be helpful and useful in your work toward continuous improvement and student success.

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