The Process Improvement Steering Committee recently received 58 recommendations from Interact Communications Inc. from an extensive review of the student intake process. Recommendations were made after collecting registration and enrollment data, spoofing the admissions process via web and phone, and conducting numerous in-person interviews with El Camino College and ECC Compton Center students, faculty, staff, and administrators.
Recommendation areas are now being prioritized, with department responsibilities, cost considerations, and implementation plans to be developed this spring.
Top Five Overarching Recommendations:
1. Track Students through the Enrollment Process
Create a system that tracks students comprehensively as they complete the enrollment process.
Next Step: Put real-time, day-to-day tracking in place for student volume and flow.
2. Focus on the Human Touch
Increase "in person" opportunities during the enrollment process: students are more likely to complete the process through registration if they know that even one person on campus cares about them.
Next Step: Explore ways to infuse personal relationships during the intake process, beyond outreach and the counselors.
3. Cut Back on Paper
Utilizing technology will save students and staff members time and money, in addition to providing an efficient communications tool.
Next Step: Evaluate and implement existing digital technology solutions to facilitate college processes and utilize tools that will increase efficiency.
4. Market at the Student Level
All student materials should be written at an appropriate reading level and should be as visual and brief as possible.
Next Step: Review and enhance ALL internal student-facing communications.
5. Help Students Find Their Path
Offer tools for college/career exploration and help students find a path to their future even before the enrollment process begins.
Next Step: Explore the idea of infusing the "Pathways" concept into the initial student experience.
Thank you to members of the Process Improvement Steering Committee who have offered guidance and input to this project. Committee members represent a cross-section from management, faculty and classified employees with a range of experience in Student and Community Advancement, Academic Affairs, Information Technology Services, and Public Relations & Marketing.