Data-Driven Programmatic Change at Universities: What Works and How

In this paper, we present some of our recent experiences with a data visualization tool and offer some use cases where the visualization tool can potentially drive programmatic change in universities. The Ribbon Tool provides an interactive visualization of student flows through academic programs, progressing over time to either successful completion (graduation) or attrition. Through effective use of the Ribbon Tool by those who can effect curriculum change, their ability to generate persuasive arguments for change are enhanced. This paper presents some use cases and commentary on actual usage of the Ribbon Tool to call for programmatic change across a university.