Documentation

Methodology

The Institutional Compass is based on the framework presented in The Institutional Compass: Method, Use and Scope by Michele Friend (Springer, 2022). The six-module workflow guides users through defining an institution, selecting indicators, mapping data points, computing sector positions, placing a Wish Spot, and reviewing results.

Module Descriptions

Module 1 — Defining

Answer SMART questions to define institutional identity, boundaries, actors, lifespan, and continuity criteria.

Module 2 — Indicators

Capture qualitative descriptors for Harmony, Discipline, and Excitement. Set strategic rebalancing direction and quantitative wish spot.

Module 3 — Data Points

Collect institutional data points with sector assignment, comparable institutions, and transformation rules.

Module 4 — Computation

Compute degree angles, sector percentiles, and institutional compass positioning using the data pipeline.

Module 5 — Wish Spot

Visualize the compass with the wish spot overlay. Compare computed position against aspirational target.

Module 6 — Review

Final review, approval, and generation of the institutional compass report with policy recommendations.

User Guide

  1. Create a new session or resume an existing one from the Home page.
  2. Work through Modules 1–6 sequentially. Each module can be saved and resumed.
  3. Submit each module when complete to unlock the next one.
  4. In Module 6, review all submissions and generate the final compass report.

Legal Disclaimer

This software is provided for academic and research purposes as part of coursework at The George Washington University. It is not intended for commercial use. The Institutional Compass methodology is the intellectual property of its original authors. Use of this tool indicates acceptance of these terms.