Case Study – Concordia Lutheran High School
January 20, 2024
Case Study: Modernizing Operational Processes for Concordia Lutheran High School
Background:
Concordia Lutheran High School (CLHS) has been around since the 1930’s and is owned and managed by 17 local Lutheran congregations. With a population of over 500 high school students this school is a longstanding educational institution in the community of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Challenge:
CLHS recognized that its internal processes for data collection and management were outdated and needed to be modernized. They sought a partner that could help them better understand their own organizational needs as well as a deeper understanding of the landscape of available software solutions.
Solution:
Working closely with CLHS, we developed a comprehensive solution to address their challenges by implementing three phases of development to meet their desired objectives:
Phase 1: Discovery
These initial conversations focus on deep discovery to understand current data sources and internal operational processes, including:
Current Data and Operational Processes Conversations:
- Interviewed various CLHS team members to capture current data – sources, paths, gaps, etc… as well as current internal processes for data management.
Refine Scope of Work:
- Clarified the scope of project goals and deliverables to reflect a better understanding of work from the initial discovery phase.
Phase 2: Evaluation of SIS Platform Options
With a clear understanding of both current processes and ideal project outcomes, our team did significant research on the best available software solutions, including:
Platform Research:
- Conducted research to evaluate SIS platforms like FACTS and PowerSchool for integration with CRM tools and CLHS’s greater tech strategy.
API Assessments:
- Completed a deep investigation into the APIs of SIS platforms to ensure seamless integration with CLHS’s existing systems.
Comprehensive Evaluation:
- Provided a wide-range evaluation of additional systems like Learning Management, Single Sign-On, Tuition Payment, and Financial Aid for compatibility and functionality.
Phase 3: Modernize Operational Processes
Collaboratively with CLHS we were able to identify the best solution for their CRM and SIS and work through the process of implementation and automations, including:
CRM Evaluation & Selection:
- Completed evaluation and selection of an appropriate CRM platform considering CLHS requirements and budget, with a focus on HubSpot and Salesforce options.
CRM Customization:
- Implemented and customized selected CRM to align with CLHS’s data model and migration from existing systems.
Data Funnels Integration:
- Developed and integrated cohesive data funnels for web forms, text messages, donations, and event signups to streamline data flow into the CRM as a single source of organizational truth.
Communication Enhancements:
- Provided additional integration of the CRM with email marketing and SMS platforms for detailed segmentation and real-time engagement with families.
Build Operational Efficiencies:
- Developed processes within the CRM to improve collaboration internally and externally, leveraging pipelines, tasks, and notifications for streamlined operations.
Results:
Through this project, Impact Upgrade successfully modernized CLHS’s operational processes, enhanced communication strategies, and empowered their team with efficient and integrated systems to support enrollment and development efforts.
Conclusion:
Impact Upgrade’s partnership with CLHS is a great example of our focus on effective data management and data mapping to ensure that data moves from point A to B with consistency, accuracy, and simplicity. Our team understood the assignment – they deeply researched available options, identified a comprehensive solution that integrated within their current and future tech strategy, and worked alongside CLHS’s staff to implement new tools and systems.