SAMIS Application Tracker makes a difference
After a huge effort in 2009 by BUCS and the Recruitment & Admissions Office, a new SAMIS Application Tracker went live last November. Now nearly six months into the 2010 admissions cycle, the full benefits of the Tracker are clear. Paper has been eliminated almost entirely from our admissions processes, reducing the University’s carbon footprint and delivering significant savings on postage.
On the postgraduate side turn around times are now just two days on average. This has been achieved alongside an increase in applications of 60%. The rate at which postgraduate offers are accepted has also improved, reflecting in part our faster communication with applicants.
The Tracker works like this: once we receive an application - either on-line direct or from UCAS, the applicant is sent their BUCS username and password. This gives them access to the Tracker. When the applicant logs in, they find:
- information about the application and its progress;
- messaging and enquiry facilities;
- the ability to upload supporting documentation;
- access to online offer letters;
- the ability to accept an offer online (PG only) and
- the ability to alter personal details.
The overall result is that we are able to respond to the best applicants more quickly, providing a tailored and smooth route through the University admissions process. In due course, BUCS, RAO and Web Services hope to further develop the Tracker and the support if provides to staff and to our applicant community.
Here is an example of what the Tracker looks like:
