In parts one and two of this Tip of the Week series, we explored findings from the 2024 State of the Field Survey related to structural and procedural elements of Behavioral Intervention Teams (BITs). In this final installment, we turn our attention to how these teams maintain consistent, high-quality service, evaluate their effectiveness, and align their practices with the NABITA Standards.
Quality Assurance and Assessment Elements
The survey explored how teams approach quality assurance and assessment. Questions examined how respondents implement ongoing strategies like supervision, semester or year-end reports, and team audits. It also asked how they share the insights gathered and use them to shape future decisions and plans.
Team Audit
Respondents were asked whether their teams regularly audit their structure and processes to stay effective. Our survey revealed an almost 50/50 split on whether teams conduct audits. Of those who do, the majority do it at an annual frequency. The Standards recommend conducting team audits at least every two years to maintain high quality of care and accountability. Regular audits aren’t just a formality—they’re essential. They help BITs stay ahead of trends, mitigate risks, and improve team wellness. By committing to annual audits, teams can adapt, improve, and deliver better support. It’s a straightforward way to keep your team optimized for success.
Team Effectiveness
Most respondents admitted not using research methods to evaluate their team’s effectiveness. However, for the small group that does—less than one-fifth of respondents—key research areas included assessing connections to resources, retention or academic success, risk level reduction, satisfaction with BIT or case management services, and increase in wellness scores. Those who take the time to conduct these assessments use the results to make meaningful changes, from enhancing programming and services to improving team training, resources, and community education.
Why This Matters
The Standards advise teams to use assessment efforts to understand their effectiveness. Setting measurable goals is key—proving the team’s efforts work and using data-driven research to refine and improve. It’s not just about meeting expectations; it’s about raising the bar.
Team Reports
Survey respondents were split evenly on whether they produce reports at the end of the semester or the year. The good news? The Standards give teams the flexibility to choose what works best—end-of-semester or end-of-year—to share key insights on team practices and trends.
Teams that create reports typically cover important data points like presenting issues of concern, demographics of referred and referring individuals, risk levels, common interventions, team accomplishments, and completed team training. But these reports aren’t just paperwork—they’re powerful tools. Most respondents reported using this data to make smarter, more informed decisions about allocating resources and strengthening their work.
Reports should include de-identified, aggregate data, and the Standards recommend sharing them publicly on the team’s website and with key stakeholders. Why? Because these reports do more than capture trends—they drive action. Data-driven reports allow teams to identify behavioral patterns, assess intervention effectiveness, and make informed decisions about resource allocation and program development. Sharing these insights with leadership, faculty, and staff fosters transparency, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of the team’s efforts. This enhances safety and well-being, highlights the team’s impact, secures continued support, and justifies the need for additional resources or adjustments in approach. By leveraging these reports, teams can proactively address emerging trends, ensure their interventions remain effective, and adopt a data-driven approach that drives meaningful change. It’s a win-win for both the teams and the communities they serve.
Revisit parts one and two of this Tip of the Week series. Become a NABITA member today to connect with fellow practitioners, share knowledge, and build a support network. Gain access to a wealth of valuable resources designed to save time, promote collaboration, and ensure best practices for your team.