Why unified data and technology is critical to student experience and university success

Why unified data and technology is critical to student experience and university success

The Australian higher education sector continues to evolve rapidly, with hybrid learning,
non-linear education, and the current skills shortage all shaping how universities operate.

At the same time, universities are grappling with rising operational costs and decreased funding, leading to fierce competition for new enrolments.

Amidst the dynamic landscape of higher education, the student experience has become a crucial factor in attracting and retaining students.

The student experience encompasses a wide array of interactions, from how students first learn about an institution through to the enrolment process, coursework, social activities, wellbeing support and career connections. With so many student touchpoints to manage, institutions are turning to data and technology integrations to help streamline communications and improve their adaptability to change.

Download the white paper: Why Unifying Data and Technology is Critical to the Success and Future of Universities

Enhancing institutional efficiency and effectiveness
Universities face an increasingly fragmented IT landscape, with siloed data and legacy systems making it difficult to support growth ambitions and improve student experiences.

By integrating systems and data, institutions are starting to align digital and business strategies so that they can meet operational goals while providing more connected, seamless and personalised experiences for students.

One of the most effective ways universities can achieve this is by consolidating disparate systems into a cloud-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solution, such as Salesforce.

Optimising admissions and enhancing student engagement
In recent years, there have been significant fluctuations in the enrolment of higher education students for numerous reasons – Covid-19 restrictions, declining domestic student numbers, high cost of living, proposed international student caps, and volatile labour market conditions being just a few.

To better capture the attention of prospective students, institutions are now focusing on delivering more personalised and targeted engagement strategies. Integrated CRM and marketing automation is increasingly being used to attract more prospective students with tailored, well-timed communication.

Universities are also using CRM tools to support student retention and minimise attrition. According to a Forrester study, students are 15 per cent more likely to stay with an institution when Salesforce is used to provide communications, learning resources and support services.

Streamlining communication and collaboration
By creating a centralised system of engagement, universities can not only support students throughout their academic journey, but also oversee their wellbeing.

For example, a leading university in Sydney has developed a system that provides a comprehensive view of students and their needs, allowing for integrated and holistic support and transforming its incident reporting and case management.

Fostering stronger alumni and industry relations
Another area where CRM systems play a pivotal role is in building alumni and industry relationships. Alumni who feel valued by their university – through personalised engagement – are more likely to return when seeking upskilling, or to lend financial support.

Personalising communication to industry partners can also help strengthen relationships, potentially leading to sponsored research, grants, and donations, as well as internships and career placements.

University of Technology Sydney, for example, adopted a centralised data-led strategy for Corporate Relations to change how it works with strategic partners, significantly strengthening its partner network across the university.

Unlocking the value of data and integration

With unified data and digital technology driving personalised student interactions, university ICT departments can empower faculty and staff to exceed enrolment goals, foster lifelong student relationships and drive institutional growth.

To learn more about the strategies and technologies to maximise institutional business value, download the white paper.

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