BMIS 302: Student Information System

In regards to my article summary for chapter 1, the University of Nebraska has announced that a new student information system is on the horizon. As an admissions counselor, it has me excited about the new features which would allow new recruitment strategies for the admissions office. E-recruitment strategies are growing throughout college campuses across the country. IM, podcasting, blogs, and social networks are some of these tools that are attracting students to certain colleges. It would interesting to know if these new student information systems include any of these new features. Currently, Facebook and MySpace provide the opportunity for current and prospective students to mingle among cyberspace. Maybe colleges and universities will have their own programs to allow this type of interaction? One benefit of this would be that university staff could monitor and filter questionable information and postings. Overall, it could provide a more positive image for the university.

Campus and student security is also another issue that could be addressed by a new system. With the tragedy that took place at Virginia Tech and other campuses, we are reminded that we need an alert system that is effective and fast. UNK has addressed this by sending e-mail alerts in a possible threat, but what else? UNL has initiated a text-message alert system. Although I believe that the text-message alert is more effective than email, I still think more can be done to protect students and staff. The new student information system might allow this. Automatic emails, text messages, and IM alerts, from this new system could save lives!