Streamlining Student Engagement and Admissions at Southeast Missouri State University
13%
increase in applications
2
days to process applications
5
vendor tools eliminated
Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) is a comprehensive university committed to providing quality education and fostering student success. With a diverse student body and a wide range of programs, SEMO aimed to enhance its admissions processes and improve student engagement. To achieve these goals, the SEMO admissions team turned to Element451.
The Problem
SEMO faced several significant challenges that required a more innovative and technology sound solution:
- Complex Admissions Processes: The existing admissions process was cumbersome and inefficient, leading to delays and frustration among prospective students.
- Fragmented Communication: Maintaining consistent and effective communication with prospective students and internal departments was challenging, resulting in information silos.
- Manual Operations: Many processes were handled manually, consuming valuable staff time and increasing the risk of errors.
Solution and Implementation
Unified Communication Platform
Element451 provided a single platform to manage all student interactions, ensuring consistency and efficiency across departments.
Automated Processes
Automation of routine tasks such as application processing and follow-up communications reduced the manual workload on staff.
AI Insights
Utilizing Bolt Insights, SEMO could track and analyze every student interaction, engagement rates, and the effectiveness of their communication strategies.
Element451 has revolutionized our admissions process and student engagement. The platform’s automation and personalization features have significantly improved our efficiency and student satisfaction. Our chatbot, Sadie, has been a fantastic addition, helping us manage student inquiries effectively.
The Results
Increased Open Rates
The personalized communication strategy led to an average email open rate of 33-35%.
Higher Payment Rates
Automated payment reminders resulted in a significant increase in student payment rates, reducing instances of de-registration for non-payment.
Positive Retention Indicators
SEMO saw improved retention rates as students returned for multiple degrees and stacked credentials, indicating higher satisfaction and engagement.
The Element451 technology is very easy for students to use, easy to navigate — and they can do it all on their phones. That really increases the accessibility.
The implementation of Element451 led to additional improvements in SEMO’s operations:
- Increased Efficiency: Automation and streamlined processes allowed staff to focus on strategic tasks, improving overall operational efficiency.
- Enhanced Student Engagement: Personalized communication strategies resulted in higher engagement rates among prospective students.
- Higher Application Rates: The improvements in the admissions process led to a notable increase in the number of completed applications.
- Improved Communication: SEMO successfully managed student interactions through automated and personalized communication, leading to better relationships with prospective students.
We believe in getting communications out to families early. The younger we can connect with the family, the better. That’s key to our strategy. We store prospect records for elementary, junior high and high school students. There is no limit.
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