Case Study
MHEC Empowered by Data Accuracy and Modernized Finance
Before a digital readiness assessment, MHEC struggled with data silos, inconsistent technology use, complex reporting, and manual processes.
Organization
A nonprofit collective making quality higher education accessible and affordable.
Need
Digital overhaul for stronger data governance, standardized reporting, and simpler CRM.
Outcome
Detailed pathway to improve data quality, decision-making, and operational efficiency.
Understanding the situation
Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC) strengthens postsecondary education in member states through cost-savings initiatives and policy solutions. CLA first worked with MHEC to identify problems, opportunities, and improvements — which led to implementing modern, integrated financial software, an upskilled finance team, and an efficient co-sourced staffing model.
MHEC subsequently asked CLA to do the same for its organization-wide data and technology to resolve its challenges:
- Data silos and accuracy — Multiple data silos and unreliable sources of truth led to low confidence in data accuracy.
- Reporting and technology adoption — Technology adoption and reporting was significantly varied across teams, with a proliferation of software applications and no centralized governance.
- Complex data and reporting needs — Complex data and reporting needs pulled data from various sources across 12 states without adequate infrastructure to manage it.
- Manual processes — Many processes were manually intensive, consuming staff time that could be better spent on value-added work.
- CRM configuration and adoption — Issues with the configuration and adoption of Microsoft Dynamics CRM required improvements and staff training.
- Lack of data governance — There was no clear ownership or decision-making processes for data management.
Exploring the challenge
To address these digital challenges, CLA performed a digital readiness assessment and developed a comprehensive strategic roadmap with five key initiatives:
- Establish a data governance function, forming a cross-functional committee to oversee data policies and the execution of the roadmap.
- Build a data warehouse using Microsoft Fabric, defining the data model and architecture to centralize data management.
- Develop wireframes and dashboards to enhance reporting capabilities for program managers, executive leadership, and governance.
- Implement improvements to the CRM configuration, along with training and education for staff.
- Create a “vice president of data” position to facilitate ongoing data management and governance.
CLA’s comprehensive approach to tailoring and modernizing our finance functions and resolving our data challenges transformed our operations. We’re now a more mature organization with a connected environment, improved data quality, and enhanced reporting capabilities for sustained success.
Learn how adopting a digital strategy can further your goals.
Achieving results
After completing the digital readiness assessment and working with CLA’s digital team to address data silos, improve data accuracy, and foster a culture of data literacy, MHEC enhanced its decision-making processes and boosted operational efficiency.
With a roadmap to a more connected environment, better data quality and access, enhanced engagement data tracking, and greater reporting capabilities, MHEC is now more effectively positioned to fulfill its mission of fostering strong, equitable postsecondary educational opportunities and outcomes.
