And it should lead the institution to discover how unique it is. It should indicate how it measures up to the common standards for the region. It should tell an institution how well it is fulfilling its unique mission. A Self-Study should be an objective search for the truth about an institution by the institution itself. This is a major challenge for any institution.
Objectivity is an elusive goal.
However, there is great virtue in objectivity. An institution that faces its true situation will accomplish the goals of the Self-Study and become a better institution. I would say three things to individuals working on the Self-Study. First, focus on the must statements, and know what they say. Second, focus on the mission and goals of the University, and be very familiar with them.