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Show New computer on-line speeds up admissions The University's Admissions Office is once again trying to improve its methods of processing admissions application. ap-plication. According to Admission Ad-mission Director Normand L. Gibbons a new computerized online on-line admissions sytem will process 20,000 admissions applications ap-plications compared to 9,600 just three years ago. The computer is the most sophisticated in the Intermountain region and is one of only a handful in the nation. The process was installed last April after a year and a half of planning. It has been programmed for a capacity of 20,000 persons and currently holds the files for some 3,200 freshmen accepted to the University for Autumn Quarter, 1972. "One of the biggest advantages ad-vantages of the new system is that it allows quick processing of admissions information as it is received," explains Mr. Gibbons. "Since data does not usually arrive all at once, application information can be stored in a memo file for instant retrieval when transcripts, test scores and other materials arrive." As the daily main is received in the Admissions Office it is sorted manually into alphabetic sequence to facilitate matching of separate items received on the same day (i.e., an application and a transcript). Applications are then forwarded to video terminal operators, who plug the students' social security numbers into one of three IBM 2260 terminals similar to those used by airlines in scheduling. g After the information is entered, en-tered, it can be recalled (at the push of a button) to make changes, additions or deletions in the application process. All information is channeled from the Admissions Office terminals to Data Processing, where it is recorded on a disc and stored until needed. On a round-the-clock basis, Data Processing automatically churns out jacket and mailing labels, letters of acceptance, summaries of transfer credit when applicable, and seven and 30-day notices to students for whom all requied information has not yet been received. The Admissions Data Management and Inquiry System collects, evaluates and disseminates data. It also records American College Testing Program and College Level Examination Program scores and is capable of converting semester credit hours to quaterly credit hours for transfer students. "This system is tailor-made to meet Admissions Office needs," says Mr. Gibbons. "Most computerized admissions set-ups are designed by data processing in accordance with their desires- this one was designed by admissions ad-missions personnel in collaboration collabora-tion with Data Processing. Mr. Gibbons said that it is easier than ever, and there has been no increase in his stall. |
