From Intuition to Evidence: Data-Driven Decision-Making and Institutional Performance in Contemporary Pesantren

Abstract

This study aims to examine how data-driven decision-making is developed and practiced and how it contributes to institutional performance in contemporary pesantren. A qualitative case study design was employed to investigate the transition from intuition-based management toward evidence-informed institutional decision-making. The research was conducted at   Pesantren, selected because its educational environment provides a relevant context for examining the interaction between Islamic educational traditions, digital information, and contemporary management practices. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and document analysis involving institutional leaders, coordinators, teachers, and administrative personnel. Data were analyzed through data condensation, data display, and verification. The findings indicate that data-driven decision-making operates through four interconnected processes: data collection, collective interpretation, evidence-informed decision-making, and monitoring-evaluation. Data were used to support institutional planning, identify problems, allocate resources, monitor programs, and improve educational services. The study concludes that data does not replace experiential leadership but strengthens managerial judgment through systematic evidence. The implication is that pesantren need to develop data literacy, collaborative data cultures, and sustainable information systems to strengthen accountability, responsiveness, and institutional performance.