Many consider organizational effectiveness the most critical dependent variable in all organizational analyses. The purpose of this study is to examine the components of organizational effectiveness in intercollegiate athletic departments, determine the best model of fit, and create a foundation grounded in the practical application which merges the theory with the reality. Ten individuals having carried the title of athletic director, or senior level administrator at the Power 5 level were selected to participate in this study. After examining the theoretical research and the four major models that have been developed over time, it was clear the fourth model, the multiple-constituency model, and its synthesis of the earlier three models is the best fit for this industry. This study contributes to the literature by delineating the core metrics utilized by athletic departments in their evaluation process which provides a launching point for future research into organizational effectiveness in intercollegiate athletics.