This paper describes the results of research conducted on the perceptions of college and university presidents relative to the perceived impact of the institutional research office on institutional effectiveness at their respective institutions. A national survey of 485 college and university presidents resulted in 261 responses. The survey focused on presidents' perceptions of effectiveness of some of the basic activities central to institutional research, planning, and assessment. Among these activities were: reporting of data to internal and external constituents, institutional planning support, student need and opinion evaluation, academic program planning and assessment, enrollment projection and analysis, and student learning outcomes assessment. Institutional research units were also evaluated relative to the degree to which they were reactive versus proactive, provided timely and accurate data and information, demonstrated understanding of data and information needs of campus decision makers, and the degree to which the president relied on the institutional research unit. (Contains 11 references.) (Author)