Institutional Analysis - Formal evaluations for a Potential Purchase

Potential purchasers need due diligence in reviewing a formal evaluation of a school that is for sale.  An analysis includes a careful examination of budgets and actuals, revenue sources, trends, policies, procedures, and personnel. In addition to an indepth analysis of the objective data, it is important to look carefully at the culture of the organization.  

We have worked directly for venture capital companies to help them evaluate accredited proprietary schools. After an initial discussion to determine the goals of our client, our analysis typically begins with gathering the institutional data.  This data provides a framework for onsite evaluations.  Because we have worked in higher education for more than 15 years, often at a granular level, we are experienced at performing our analysis in a non-intrusive manner.  We have the ability to work with individuals at all levels of the organization to get a good grasp of how the organization is functioning. 

Our recommendations include a breakdown of the school's current budgets, including opportunities to reduce or eliminate expenses as well as areas that are under-funded.  We analyze the staffing model and make recommendations for any changes in staffing ratios.  We review marketing budgets and allocations to evaluate cost per lead and cost per start and determine the effectiveness of specific vendors.  We examine documentation on accreditation, including last review date, pending issues, and next scheduled review.  We evaluate training to evaluate the content, determine the processes, and check for implementation.  We look at program offerings and their current market relevance.  We examine the potential for growth either through offerings, modalities, or expansion.  We meet with personnel in all departments to evaluate areas of strength and weakness.  We identify areas of concern and areas of opportunity throughout the organization.

Our recommendations are compiled into a formal report that is delivered to our client.  We also meet with our client to review the findings, discuss recommendations, and assist in next steps if needed.

To discuss your interest in a school, please contact us for a confidential discussion at info@howopportunityworks.com or complete our Institutional Request Form at the right.