Boise State University
PRE-4: Reporting Methodologies

In preparing this STARS report, the data collection process underwent a significant overhaul compared to previous years. The following narrative outlines the revised methodology and its benefits:

In the previous reporting cycle, a committee was established, and the task of data input into the STARS reporting tool was distributed among members based on their areas of expertise. While this approach leveraged the specialized knowledge of various staff members, it proved to be highly time-consuming and demanded substantial effort from numerous individuals.

Recognizing the need for a more efficient process, we implemented a new strategy for this year's report. An intern was appointed as the designated STARS liaison.  The intern was closely supervised by the Sustainability Director.  

This shift resulted in a more centralized and cohesive data collection process, reducing the burden on staff and ensuring a more focused and coordinated effort. The intern's role included gathering data, ensuring compliance with STARS credit criteria, and conducting initial reviews for accuracy. This method proved to be both time-effective and beneficial for the professional development of the student involved.

Data Collection Process

• Data Request and Submission: Formal data requests were sent to each identified provider, specifying the required data and the format in which it should be submitted. Deadlines for data submission were clearly communicated to ensure timely collection.
• Follow-Up and Support: Regular follow-up communications were made to assist data providers with any questions or issues they encountered. Support was offered via email, phone calls, and in-person meetings as needed.
• Data Compilation: Submitted data was compiled into a centralized data repository (Google Drive then to the Reporting Tool), allowing for efficient organization and easy access for verification and analysis.

Ned Potter - STARS Liason and Graduate Research Intern

Amy Parish - Sustainability Director

Brian Entman

Bryant Johnson

Jessica Butler

Kylene Collette

Kevin Feris

Ben Larsen

Joey Martinez

Gabriel Bishop

Mark Damm

Stephanie Capaldo

Amy Moll

Kevin Jones

Casey McGee

Mike Stefancic

Graduate Student / Intern Ned Potter was very involved with data collection.  Ned completed an internship with the Office of Sustainability during which his primary responsibility was to collect and summarize data for the STARS report.  

The literacy and culture assessments were based on studies completed by students for capstone projects.

Angel Dang, an undergraduate student working with the Office of Sustainability, provided finalized versions of data files including the greenhouse gas emissions and commuter data.

1. Data Collection and Verification

• Primary Data Sources: Data was collected from reliable primary sources, including institutional databases, financial records, human resources data, and direct input from relevant departments.
• Cross-Verification: Data was cross-verified with multiple sources to confirm accuracy. For example, utility data was verified against utility bills and metering systems.

2. Adherence to Credit Criteria

• Guidelines and Templates: Specific guidelines and templates are provided to all data contributors to ensure that the data collected meets STARS credit criteria.
• Regular Updates: Any updates or changes to STARS criteria were closely monitored to ensure ongoing compliance.

3. Error Checking

• Automated Tools: The use of automated data validation tools helped identify inconsistencies, outliers, and potential errors in large datasets.
• Manual Review: A thorough manual review of the data was conducted to ensure that automated tools had not overlooked any discrepancies.

4. Training and Capacity Building

• Comprehensive Training: Training on STARS criteria, data quality standards, and reporting procedures was undertaken to ensure a thorough understanding of the requirements.

5. Data Management Systems

• Centralized Data Repository: A centralized data repository (Google Drive) was used to store all collected data, ensuring a single source of truth and facilitating easy access for verification and reporting.
• Access Controls: Strict access controls were implemented to ensure that only authorized personnel could modify or approve data entries.

6. Feedback Mechanisms

• Internal Feedback Loops: Regular feedback loops were established with key stakeholders to address any issues or discrepancies promptly.
• External Reviews: Where applicable, external reviews by third-party experts were sought to provide an additional layer of verification and validation.

7. Documentation and Reporting

• Comprehensive Documentation: Detailed documentation of the data collection and verification process was maintained, including records of sources, methodologies, and verification steps.
• Transparent Reporting: The final report includes a transparent disclosure of methodologies, sources, and any limitations encountered during data collection.