A Meta-model for Key Performance Indicators in Higher Education

Abstract

We propose a software solution for representing diverse sets of key performance indicators in higher education. Our solution addresses both the heterogeneity and the common structure of key performance indicators. To tackle the issue of heterogeneity, we employ metamodeling and propose a meta-model that is expressive and generic enough to represent any set of key performance indicators in higher education. The proposed meta-model is more abstract than any specific key performance indicators set, and the sets are considered as models, which are instances of the proposed metamodel. We address the heterogeneity in calculating the key performance indicators' values by representing them with mathematical formulas and utilizing an expression language that allows for their dynamic evaluation. We verified the solution by representing typical key performance indicator sets and developing a software application prototype that enables the creation, monitoring, and further development of key performance indicator sets. The verification confirms the wide applicability of our proposed solution.