Using Dashboards

Our dashboards are designed to support decision-making across Student Life. By considering their purpose staff, leadership and external partners can interpret data accurately and in context.

Dashboard Purpose Matters

Dashboards are powerful tools, but their value depends on how they are used. Some dashboards are intended for day-to-day operational awareness, while others are designed for long-term planning or deeper analytical exploration.

Since each dashboard is built with a specific audience, question type and need in mind, using one outside intended context can lead to misunderstanding or over-interpretation of the data.

Types of Dashboards

Operational Dashboards

Dashboards that monitor processes that may require timely response.

  • Are service demand and utilization changing this week (appointments, events, check-ins)?
  • Are there real-time pressures (capacity, wait time, staffing coverage) that need attention?
  • Are any student populations experiencing immediate access gaps?

Analytical Dashboards

Dashboards that support deeper evaluation using historical data, drill-up/drill-down techniques and comparisons over time.

  • How does engagement differ across populations, program types, or service pathways?
  • What trends appear across semesters/years by location, cohort, or participation level?
  • What patterns emerge when we compare multiple dimensions of engagement together?

Strategic Dashboards

Dashboards that are used to review progress on goals and plan forward; focusing on high-level indicators and periodic updates.

  • Are we making progress toward Student Life priorities and institutional goals?
  • Which engagement or service outcomes are improving (or slipping) over multiple terms?
  • Where should we prioritize investment, staffing, or expansion next cycle?