As part of a multi-phase, Florida state-mandated study of state-wide higher education data resources and systems, this study focused on the use of student information for inter-sector policy analysis and decision making. In particular the question of whether to establish a master student-level database was explored. Through interviews with providers and consumers of information, problems were identified including a lack of formal communication, logistical and structural complexities of the data, difficulty in locating and using data, and limited access to data. Recommendations included: (1) rejection of the master student-level database plan; (2) establishment of formal communication between data producers and consumers; (3) production and maintenance of a user-friendly, menu-driven electronic system of current and historical information accessible by consumers of educational data; (4) designation of a data coordination group comprised of directors of management information systems; (5) allocation of resources to the offices for management information systems in each education sector to support increased data analysis services; and (6) a requirement that the data coordination group submit a report to the Florida State Postsecondary Education Commission. Appendixes contain a consultant's report and information on statutory authority on education information. (JB)