27 Sep Spotlight on Strategy with Dr. Erin Holmes

At the IEHE, we are always excited to have the opportunity to highlight the incredible work being done by our colleagues. As part of the launch of Data Strategy in Colleges and Universities: From Understanding to Implementation, edited by our own Kristina Powers, we’re bringing you a series of profiles of the higher education professionals who share their knowledge and expertise in the book.

Dr. Erin Holmes serves as Associate Vice Provost for Institutional Research at the University of Alaska Anchorage, and wrote Chapter 5: Leveraging Existing Information from Department Plans. In the chapter, she explains how to leverage existing information to streamline the data strategy process, noting that some departments may have data strategy elements in their existing departmental plans.

Key Chapter Takeaways

According to Erin, the key takeaway is that good research practice is paramount. In writing the chapter, Erin was reminded of how applicable the research process is to a data strategy, and the value in using  data from other parts of the institution for efficiency. Other departments may have data available for your use, but if their research methodology was not sound, it will likely be of limited value.

Dr. Erin Holmes On the Process of Writing

Erin’s tip for writers in collaborative projects is to cede ownership of the work, and don’t take criticism personally. She adds:

“Writing for me is a very long process and once I recognized that, I have enjoyed the process much more.”

An Excerpt from Data Strategy in Colleges and Universities:

Want to read more? Order your copy of Data Strategy in Colleges and Universities: From Understanding to Implementation now! You can also read more about the chapter authors and an extended excerpt from the book.

Is writing is a long process for you? What ways have you found to make yourself more efficient/productive with your writing? Tell us about it in the comments below.