cover story
Technology Strategy
Technology Strategy Admissions
Make admissions digital to reduce paperwork Online admission applications can reduce stress for you and provide instant information for prospective students
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s the first step in what will hopefully culminate in a lifelong relationship with a prospective student, the value of the admission process cannot be overstated. From the moment a student reaches out to you via your electronic or offline points of presence, it is imperative that the process be made as smooth and transparent as possible. And with the rapid proliferation of internet connectivity across the country, the onus on maximising the use of technology to reach out to hitherto inaccessible applicants lies in your hands. A good place to start is within your own admissions office. Does it depend on archaic paper based systems for the bulk of its transactions? If so, it is critical to consider the implications of taking this department online via a dedicated section on your website. Will you be switching over completely to digital applications, or maintain a more complex hybrid model to allow for a more inclusive approach towards traditional applicants coming from Tier-B and Tier-C cities? Timing is critical too — a rollout immediately after the conclusion of an admissions process is recommended, which gives you sufficient time to test the system in the real world before the first student even attempts to register and submit an application, several months later. As far as choosing a system that manages application submissions goes, while there exist some ready-made solutions in the software market, a bespoke system that meets your specific
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EduTech January 2012
“Applications are available that enable colleges to maximise the effectiveness of their recruitment campaign and increase enrolment” —Raj Mruthyunjayappa Managing Director, APAC & EMEA Talisma
Read his inputs on how to tap into the available technologies to maximise your IT requirements on pg 50