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Lisa Currie

Streamlining Admissions & Enrollment, A User-Centered Approach

Updated: Apr 1

Project Context:


Challenge: A public charter school faces declining enrollment, impacting funding and growth. Needs a streamlined application process to increase applications, engagement, and retention.



Measurable Goals:

  • Increase application submissions by 10%.

  • Increase enrollment conversion rate by 5%.

  • Increase prospect engagement by 30% through targeted outreach.

  • Generate valuable data insights through user-centric landing pages.


Successful Results & Outcomes:

Achievements:

  • Increased application submissions by 12%.

  • Increased enrollment conversion rate by 7%.

  • Successful online application integration.

  • Improved information accessibility and user experience.

  • Increased efficiency and streamlined admissions process.

  • Positive stakeholder feedback.

Challenges & Lessons Learned:

  • Technical challenges: addressing compatibility issues and data transfer.

  • Balancing user needs with admissions requirements.

  • Importance of effective communication and user guidance.


Project Scope:

  • Deliverables:

  • Integrated online application portal

  • Updated website content (admissions information)

  • User guides and tutorials

  • Integration report

Milestones:

  • Needs assessment completed (application process analysis)

  • "Personas" project completed (stakeholder insights)

  • System selection completed

  • Integration development & testing completed

  • Content development & website launch completed

  • Staff training completed

Exclusions: Upgrading existing school systems.

Project Planning & Execution:

  • Methodology: Waterfall with Agile elements (iterative development, user feedback)

Team Structure:

  • Project Manager

  • Admissions Representative

  • Web Developer/IT Specialist

  • Content Creator/Editor

  • Communication Specialist

Risk Management:

  • Potential risks: technical challenges, content delays, application requirement changes.

  • Mitigation plan: backup plans, clear deadlines, flexibility to adapt.

Schedule & Budget:

  • Defined milestones with budget allocation for each phase.

  • Regular monitoring and adjustments as needed.

Communication Plan:

  • Stakeholders: School administration, admissions staff, IT, prospective students/families.

  • Channels: Meetings, email updates, website announcements, information sessions.

  • Communication schedule: Frequency and content tailored to each stakeholder group.

  • Emphasis on: Project updates, potential challenges, new application process, user feedback during development/testing.

Metrics & KPIs:

  • Application submissions

  • Website visits, page views, and time spent

  • Applicant satisfaction surveys

  • Application processing time

  • Conversions to enrollment, and initial attendance.

Impact & Benefits:

  • Increased accessibility for applicants.

  • Improved efficiency and potentially reduced costs.

  • Increased website traffic and potential applicant pool.

  • Positive first impression and brand image.

Conclusion & Recommendations:

  • Overall Reflection: Successful integration project offering a user-friendly, online application process and improved information accessibility.

  • Recommendations:

  • Regular website content reviews and updates.

  • Monitor user feedback and website analytics for improvement opportunities.

  • Explore future functionalities like online appointment scheduling or virtual tours.

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