(January 08, 2009) XMPie, Inc., the leading provider of software for dynamic publishing, is changing the way Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) of Rochester, N.Y. reaches potential students.  Using XMPie's industry-leading PersonalEffect one-to-one cross-media solution, RIT has implemented initiatives across multiple mediums to increase the number of applicants, streamline the student application process and inform students of missing application information.
 
RIT developed a program using XMPie titled 'MyRIT' to make it easier for students to complete applications.  RIT's Print and Postal Services department created and sent more than 33,000 printed applications to potential applicants with each student's name, address, telephone, e-mail and name of high school already filled out.  A user name and password for the RIT admissions Web site was also included so students had the option to complete the pre-populated application online.
 
RIT then changed the way it reminded students about missing application information.  The university switched to an attention-grabbing postcard instead of a traditional letter to alert applicants of missing information, such as an essay, application fee or high school transcript.  Using XMPie's PersonalEffect software, each postcard highlighted the missing materials specific to the applicant. The postcard, featuring images from the school's archive, stood out among other 'college mail' and was also visible to parents who could then ensure their child completed the application process.  With the traditional approach, RIT was sending several reminders to each applicant about the missing information. The new postcard approach allowed the college to cut back on the number of reminders, printing, paper, postage and ultimately cost.
 
The programs contributed to a 16 percent increase in student applications. This academic year, RIT is increasing the application mailing to 50,000.