Dr. Norris,

Good morning. I don't believe enrollment will become totally automated in our industry because it would take away from the value of customer service. If our industry does not understand the key component of exceptional customer service and the buy in of first impression truly matters - we have lost before we ever take on compliance and the other areas that bear down on for profit and career colleges.

Financial Services (FP) on the other hand I believe is headed in that direction. I feel this way about FP because basically a simple function in everyday life with the same dollar value of education such as a home loan can be started without ever entering the bank - you just need access to the World Web. If a consumer wanted to pursue the information provided via a automated process and it fits their needs - they would be compelled to complete the process and read the fine print. You generally can't move forward without filling in the blanks and answering the questions - you have to do the work.

Dr. Norris,  I believe automation would be more effective in FP  because it eliminates the chance of misinformation, accountablility, deadlines and it allows the students to take personal responsiblity for their actions. I think too many of our students rely on Financial Services as with other agencies that they come in contact with to do the work - it is easier to have someone do it for you. Students sometimes rely on services more than their own initative - if you cannot do the work to take advantage of earning an education you probably will not manage being a good student or competitive employee.

Automation may not be the genie in the bottle that eliminates default or solve all financial aid woes, but it seems to be headed in that direction. I use the big box stores as a real world example where more and more some cash registers have been eliminated and replaced by self service check out - there is usually one or two people available to assist when needed. The goal is acheived in that the service is still being provided and you can help yourself.  I have also noticed that the cashiers have been replace with three times more self service check out.

Our industry is very competitive and we always need more students and innovative ways to enroll and service our students -  it really is about service and providing the best education in the most effective way. Financial services is a key component to access and managing funding but I think it is headed in a new direction.

Thanks,