Monday, September 30, 2002

Second Generation Web Site Makes NYU's Admissions Process Easier Than Ever

Second Generation Web Site Makes NYU's Admissions Process Easier Than Ever

New York University's undergraduate admissions office has launched a second-generation Web site that helps students to easily find admissions information online. The new site, designed and developed by Media Farm, demonstrates the sophistication and prestige of the existing NYU brand.

(PRWEB) November 2, 2003

New York, New York, October 30, 2003, - New York University's undergraduate admissions office has launched a second-generation Web site (http://admissions. nyu. edu (http://admissions. nyu. edu)) that helps students to easily find admissions information online. The new site, designed and developed by Media Farm, demonstrates the sophistication and prestige of the existing NYU brand. It features an easy-to-use interface and a downloadable, PDF version of the application process that allows students to maintain a checklist while they gather application materials.

"As the Internet matures, so does the level of knowledge and awareness among Web site users. Businesses are becoming wiser about their audiences and discovering how a site can not only extend a brand but actually support operations," said Alissa White, founding principal at Media Farm. The firm conducted user research to discover the needs of real students who would be using the site. High school students, parents and school counselors were interviewed and the findings contributed to the site's information and graphic design. White added, "It's important to live up to the expectations of your audience, and we found that NYU's prospective students are very savvy in their usage of the Web."

In their research, Media Farm also discovered that many calls to the admissions office were made by people who had tried to use the Web site but found it difficult to find information. "Having a streamlined, easy-to-use Web site has obvious benefits for our staff," said Peter Farrell, Director of Admissions Outreach & Technology. "We're always looking for ways to make information more accessible for our prospective students, and this new Web site will go a long way in that effort."

The task of maintaining the site is also now greatly simplified. With a custom, simple and secure, Web-based Content Management System NYU's Admissions staff keeps timely content up-to-date. Program information, deadlines and statistical information can be updated by anyone, regardless of their knowledge of HTML.

Preliminary web survey results indicate most users find the site “very easy” to navigate and find relevant information.

About Media Farm

Media Farm was founded in 1995 by partners Daniel Scheman and Alissa White. The firm designs and develops Web-enabled technology systems, including Web sites, content management tools, customer communication systems, marketing applications and interactive sales presentations for businesses that want to communicate effectively with their audience, increase sales or streamline business operations.

About NYU

New York University, located in the heart of Greenwich Village, was established in 1831 and is one of America's leading research universities. It is the largest private university in the U. S., and a member of the select Association of American Universities. It has one of the largest groups of international students among U. S. colleges or universities. Through its 14 schools and colleges, NYU conducts research and provides education in the arts and sciences, law, medicine, business, dentistry, education, nursing, the cinematic and dramatic arts, music and fine art, public administration, social work, and continuing and professional studies, among other areas.