This paper presents a case study that describes the role, scope, and evolution of institutional research (IR) in support of planning and decision making at Minot State University in North Dakota. It describes four specific phases of IR involvement in institutional change at the university, based on a four-tiered planning model that relied on input from all levels of the university. These phases are: needs identification, problem solving, assessment, and direction for action. The university effectively utilized the first three phases of this process to address its need for: (1) increased classroom and office space; (2) increased numbers of terminally-degreed faculty; (3) administrative reconfiguration; (4) improved community support; (5) economic development in the region; (6) development of additional monetary resources; and (7) improvement of academic quality. It is currently in the fourth phase, using IR to help implement directions for action to address the identified needs. (Contains 11 references.) (MDM)