Strategic decision-making as a part of the higher education planning process is becoming more dependent upon data elements external to the institution. The context in which postsecondary education takes place, the maturation of the planning function, and the challenge to management systems for postsecondary education are discussed. (Author/MLW)

The relationship between data and their use in a planning, management and evaluation system in a higher education institution is discussed. Elements of the institutional planning process are detailed as well as the budgeting process and a method for relating fiscal resources to institutional goals and objectives. (Author/SF)