Effective Report Preparation: Streamlining the Reporting Process. AIR 1999 Annual Forum Paper.

This paper describes the processes and techniques used to improve and streamline the standard student reports used at Purdue University (Indiana). Various models for analyzing reporting processes are described, especially the model used in the study, the Shewart or Deming Cycle, a method that aids in continuous analysis and improvement through a four step process -- plan, do, check, and act. The model was applied to enrollment reports (using Microsoft Excel for calculations), a database for tracking ad hoc information requests was developed (using Microsoft Access database software), the statewide enrollment report was improved by using Microsoft Access, and the quality of reports was improved by using survey information. The paper concludes that utilizing appropriate technology within the Deming model has reduced the amount of labor needed for creating reports and improved the accuracy and timeliness of the reports. (Contains 16 references.) (DB)