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Iowa Community College Upgrades ERP System to Prepare for Growth

Southwestern Community College in Creston, IA has upgraded its enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, anticipating growth in its approximately 1,600-student enrollment.

The college has selected the Jenzabar EX software after using the Jenzabar PX (formerly POISE) platform since 1984.

"Being a Jenzabar school already made the change seamless," said Southwestern Information Technology Director Scot Helm. "Jenzabar EX was selected for its web-based solutions, ease of conversion, affordability and trust in the company. The team was very good to work with and was quick to answer any and all questions. We are glad to be able to maintain a working relationship moving forward with Jenzabar."

In response to the college's desire to grow into the software as its needs increase, the new system will allow it to adopt elements module by module as it needs them. A cloud-based application has embedded analytics that can be accessed by administrators anytime anywhere with an enterprise client relationship management system that is responsive in design and a mobile-first strategy intended to be student-friendly with a number of self-service aspects.

"Jenzabar EX will help improve the student experience at Southwestern Community College with the tools they demand and expect," said Jenzabar Vice President and General Manager Sam Burgio. "The college is giving their students and staff high-value software and services at an affordable cost."

The highest degree offered at Southwestern is an associate degree. It offers degrees and certificates in 10 different fields, among them liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities, health professions and mechanic and repair technologies.

About the Author

Michael Hart is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer and the former executive editor of THE Journal.

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