A well-told story can be the difference between data that simply exists and data that drives action. Too often, data is viewed through a compliance lens — something to collect, report, and move on. But University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG) moves beyond compliance tracking, using Collaboratory data to inform strategic storytelling. By blending quantitative metrics with qualitative insights, they create a fuller, more impactful picture of their community engagement.
The Power of Storytelling Through Data
Data alone does not drive action. It becomes truly powerful when woven into a meaningful narrative. By intentionally crafting engagement stories, institutions can demonstrate impact, build legitimacy, and inform decision-making in a way that resonates with stakeholders. To help ensure data-driven storytelling is strategic and actionable, institutions must intentionally:
- Align with Institutional Priorities: Data is most effective when framed within a campus’ broader mission and strategic goals. Engagement stories must reinforce institutional identity and aspirations.
- Tailor Stories to Stakeholders: A compelling narrative should resonate with its audience. Whether speaking to faculty, administrators, or external partners, adapting the storytelling approach to align with different priorities and expectations is essential.
- Balance Numbers with Stories: While quantitative data can help to provide scale, it doesn’t fully capture the heart of community engagement. Pairing numerical data with reflections, case studies, and activity descriptions helps to illustrate and contextualize real-world impact.
UNCG’s Data-Driven Storytelling Strategy
UNCG has developed a structured approach to storytelling, likening it to a well-curated menu of tasty offerings. From quick highlights to in-depth explorations, they communicate their engagement efforts in multiple ways:
The Starters: CollaboraStories
Short-form narratives featuring community-engaged work are shared through UNCG’s Institute for Community and Economic Engagement (ICEE) newsletter, social media, and website. Each short story is linked to its public-facing Collaboratory page, reinforcing transparency and accessibility to multiple audiences.
The Entrees: Long-Form Spotlights
For deeper storytelling, UNCG publishes the Excellence in Community Engagement & Community-Engaged Scholarship Series, a digital and print collection exploring engaged research, scholarship, and service. The reports use Collaboratory data to create retrospective and thematic narratives supporting campus reporting and outreach.
The Desserts: Interactive Engagement
Beyond written stories, UNCG incorporates interactive components like Ripple Effects Mapping sessions and a Community Engagement Council to further illustrate the impact of engagement initiatives and celebrate those who do this work. These approaches invite participation, helping stakeholders see themselves in the larger story.
The Prix Fixe Menu: Partnership Grants
Like a themed, multi-course dinner, internal funding opportunities like UNCG’s Partnerships and Pathways Grants support multi-year engaged research partnerships for teams of faculty/staff, admins, and partners. Recipients create or use existing Collaboratory profiles to share info about events, courses, and developments.
Apply These Insights to Your Campus
By using Collaboratory as more than a reporting tool, UNCG has transformed their community engagement efforts into a compelling, data-informed story. Their approach ensures that institutional engagement is not just measured, but truly understood and valued. For campuses looking to enhance their engagement storytelling, UNCG’s approach offers a roadmap for success:
- Think Beyond Compliance: Use data not just for tracking, but for making meaning.
- Customize for Unique Stakeholders: Shape stories that align with audience priorities.
- Blend Data and Narrative: Numbers provide credibility; stories create connection.
- Acknowledge Limitations: Addressing data gaps and inconsistencies strengthens trust and accountability.
Want to Harness the Power of Community Engagement Data?
Discover how Collaboratory can help your institution capture, analyze, and leverage community engagement data for meaningful impact. Email us at info@cecollaboratory.com to learn more!
