7 steps to creating an early alert programme

Key takeaways 

• Effective student interventions are both proactive and reactive, and fueled by data 
• Early alerts and interventions should be part of institutional culture 
• Successful programmes take advantage of available resources, and tap all the right people

Nearly all institutions of higher education have some sort of early alert system in place. But many struggle to achieve meaningful results because their programmes lack strategic design and/or effective implementation. Less commonly understood are the standards and practices that define a “good” early alert programme. 

Like most, you might be struggling to achieve meaningful results because you lack the right framework for strategic design and effective implementation.  

One thing all successful early alert programmes have in common is a systematic approach to deploying the right people with the right resources at the right times to make meaningful connections with at-risk students—and spur them to action. This paper should help you evaluate how your current programme measures up. Keep in mind that any strategies you adopt should align with your institution’s specific mission and goals.  

Successful early alert programmes are both proactive and reactive, rely on the right metrics, involve all the right people (and not just the usual suspect), and serve as a key part of institutional culture. 

Being strategic about how you invest time and resources will yield a greater return when it comes to your ultimate goal—increasing student success. And, it will instill confidence in the programme among faculty and staff, increasing participation and impact over time.  

Download Ellucian’s white paper for seven steps shown by practitioners to increase success.