The roles of institutional researchers in the overall goal setting and monitoring process were studied in 1982. In addition, the use of databases and new technology (e.g., computer models and planning aids, information retrieval systems, and national databases) as support mechanisms for assessment of institutional performance, and the methods used to set and monitor goals, were assessed. Respondents were a random sample of 219 members of the Association of Institutional Research. Of the respondents working in colleges and universities, over 90 percent held administrative positions or positions that were primarily administrative, with some teaching. About 90 percent of their institutions had given policy-level attention to goals during the past 3 years, usually for the development of a master plan at the institutional level. All but 8 percent had some involvement with goal setting and monitoring, and about 30 percent had a strong or very strong policy role. Of the 15 goal activities included on the questionnaire, the 2 with the highest level of institutional researcher involvement pertained to developing a broad statement of goals, and devising assessment or evaluation procedures relating operating unit achievement to achievement of institutionwide goals. (SW)