First introduced in 1998 the SIR is now compiled and distributed every other year from the Association offices. During 1999-2000, ATS conducted a series of workshops to educate persons from ATS schools with interpretation and use of this information. The SIR includes guidance in the introductory section about directing any questions there may be regarding the information.

The SIR was developed by the Auburn Center for the Study of Theological Education and The Association of Theological Schools, with significant support from Lilly Endowment. Auburn Studies, No. 7, December 2000, is a useful companion resource to the SIR. Titled "The Big Picture: Strategic Choices for Theological Schools," it is available on the Auburn Web site at www.auburnsem.org.