Case Study: E-Forms Increase Administrative Efficiency and Encourage Tech in the Classroom |
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OVERVIEW CHALLENGE SOLUTION In addition, since the form was no longer restricted by paper size, administrators could include other information such as specific grade-level graduation requirements to help parents understand course sequences and elective options. Another restriction that was eliminated by using e-forms was the process of presenting updated course information. In the past, when new courses became available, administrators had to update the forms template and send to a printer, which could take many days. With online forms, updates could be made instantly without having to wait to approve a printer's copy and be available to parents and students immediately. Skills Assessment: Second, Pomfret School improved the way it conducted its skills assessment. Administrators used the electronic forms to conduct skills assessment tests, which helped Pomfret School place students in courses that were best suited to their skill levels. The forms contained detailed questions that could be answered directly within the form. Once the e-form is completed, the information can be shared instantly either with a simple generated link that took teachers to the results or by exporting the data to a PDF or spreadsheet for those who preferred that option. RESULTS Administrators were able to reduce the time to send and review registration and skills assessment forms. The time in between submitting an updated form and actually receiving/shipping the form has been eliminated as updated forms could be posted immediately. This also helped with tracking forms as the so called "paper chase" was eliminated as forms distributors could verify receipt of a form and a simple link could be provided in the event a parent said they didn't receive the form. Overall efficiency was increased as errors on forms from students were reduced and response rates went up as people see the use of e-forms as the norm in schools and colleges, which increase the trust people have in sending digital data. The use of e-forms also put Pomfret School ahead of the curve and improved its public image as parents see the value e-forms bring in terms of increasing efficiency and ease of use. By converting its paper-based operations using a collaborative, web-based solution, Pomfret School allowed its teachers and administration to spend more time teaching than dealing with the hassles that come with interpreting handwritten data. |