Heightened Focus on Educational Accountability Leads Colleges, Universities to SPSS Predictive Analytics Software

Governing bodies such as regional accreditation groups in North America, the Ministry of Education in Japan, and the Ministries of Education in various European countries are raising the world standard of transparent data reporting on issues such as access to education, affordability, and assurance of learning - all of which are increasingly important to tax payers, policy makers, potential and current students and their families.

SPSS Inc. (Nasdaq: SPSS), the leading global provider of Predictive Analytics software and solutions, provides the technology foundation necessary for administrators to collect, analyze and share data required in the assessment process to demonstrate continuous progress toward excellence. SPSS Predictive Analytics data and text mining, data collection and statistics software supports the standardization of a learning achievements evaluation system -- a core guideline of accountability initiatives around the globe.

Dr. Randy Swing, executive director of the Association for Institutional Research (AIR), said, "Government agencies, students, parents and alumni require transparent information be maintained and provided for public accountability and funding. The accountability measures today are widely diverse -- including the need for new or improved programs and classes, skill level of staff and faculty or returns on capital investments to improve learning facilities. Predictive Analytics software is the answer for higher education institutions that wish to efficiently and effectively prove their credibility with these diverse constituencies."

Higher education institutions using SPSS Predictive Analytics software to enhance accountability reporting include:

Georgia Southern University located in Statesboro, Ga. uses SPSS data collection survey software to survey students, parents, faculty and alumni on campus programs including, advising, orientation, resident life, financial aid, and career, technology and library services. This information is used to help assess effectiveness of programs and to make evidence-based decisions.

Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) uses SPSS Predictive Analytics to reliably predict student enrollment, analyze and project future class demand, ensure facilities are properly utilized and help students achieve their academic goals. The data gathered for analysis forms the basis for reports that allow TMCC to compete with other agencies and institutions for limited federal and state funding and aid. By deploying sophisticated analytics, the college transformed its organizational culture into one that is evidence-based, thus improving the institution's overall effectiveness.

Elena Bubnova, director of institutional research at Truckee Meadows Community College, said, "In 2006, we were able to identify more than $1 million in actual and potential benefits that resulted in positive outcomes by using SPSS Predictive Analytics technology. From predicting a budget shortfall, to identifying potential revenue, to improving the chances of student success, TMCC has realized tremendous ROI with SPSS Predictive Analytics."

The Israeli Ministry of Education (MOE) headquartered in Jerusalem, oversees curricula, educational standards, and teaching personnel in educational institutions throughout the State of Israel, supporting approximately 3,800 schools and 130,000 teachers serving 1.5 million students. The organization uses SPSS data collection survey software to create and deploy surveys to students, teachers, counselors, and principals for their perceptions on a variety of topics to better serve their needs.

Chaim Gatt, PhD, director of research and statistics in the IT division at MOE, said, "Measurement is critical to gain an accurate picture of the way things are in the field and identify areas for change or improvement. SPSS software is an excellent solution that enables us to measure and immediately understand what is occurring and then take appropriate action. Using SPSS data collection survey software, we saved approximately $250,000 a year and have been able to improve our survey projects significantly."

Jack Noonan, chairman, president and CEO of SPSS, said, "SPSS Predictive Analytics software enables higher education institutions worldwide to develop accountability systems and ensure they are in compliance with state and federal or global requirements. Instead of merely reacting or making assumptions without supporting data, universities and colleges worldwide are able to accurately predict the best course of action to benefit students, faculty and the entire academic organization."

About SPSS Higher Education

All 129 of the top U.S. colleges and universities use SPSS Predictive Analytics software, including Indiana University -- Bloomington, National University, United States Naval Academy, University of Nevada, Reno, Colorado State University-Pueblo, University of Northern Iowa, Eastern Arizona College, and Baruch College -- The City University of New York (CUNY). And, internationally, Hogeschool Arnhem & Nijmegen, Avans Hogeschool and INHOLLAND University in the Netherlands, as well as VLHORA and Erasmushogeschool Brussel in Belgium use SPSS Predictive Analytics software.

SPSS Predictive Analytics software is used by leading institutions to manage student enrollment, evaluate programs and curricula, improve graduation and retention rates, develop productive alumni outreach programs, and analyze the effectiveness of Web content. By using data to guide strategy, institutions can generate more value for students and receive a higher return on information, meet objectives and achieve goals.

About SPSS Inc.

SPSS Inc. (Nasdaq: SPSS | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating) is a leading global provider of Predictive Analytics software and solutions. The company's Predictive Analytics technology improves business processes by giving organizations forward visibility for decisions made every day. By incorporating Predictive Analytics into their daily operations, organizations become Predictive Enterprises -- able to direct and automate decisions to meet business goals and achieve a measurable competitive advantage. More than 250,000 public sector, academic and commercial customers rely on SPSS technology to help increase revenue, reduce costs and detect and prevent fraud. Founded in 1968, SPSS is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. For more information, please visit www.spss.com.

SOURCE: SPSS Inc.

SPSS Christina Preiss (312) 651-3437 cpreiss@spss.com