Background

Inland Real Estate School is dedicated to providing its students with quality legal and theoretical education designed to assist them in achieving their individual goals within the real estate field. Once part of Inland Real Estate Brokerage, Inc., Inland Real Estate School became a separate entity in 2006. Then, as of January 1, 2011, David McGowan, managing broker of the Oak Brook office, took ownership. Under his leadership, Inland Real Estate School's average pass rate for Illinois real estate exams is higher than the state average. Not surprising, as McGowan has been a real estate educator for more than 30 years. But McGowan knows it takes more than a good educator to make a school like this a success.

How long have you been using Active Network's RegOnline product?

Under Inland ownership, we began using Active Network for online registration in mid-2010. Our IT department was concerned with the huge security problems for online registration; we didn't want to take that on. We felt a third-party component was the correct solution. So I started researching various online software packages and felt Active's school management software was the most effective, cost-efficient choice that would meet all of my initial requirements. I was so impressed with Active's organization and methodology, that when I assumed ownership of the school I wanted to retain Active's solution as my official resource for online student registrations. Active has proven to be a big asset; we don't have to use other merchant services to facilitate student involvement.

Why did you choose Active?

Up to that point, we were manually registering our student population, which required taking credit card payments on the phone or by mail and manually inputting all information. We had lots of complaints, and it was clear registrants wanted an easier solution. Our students are all computer-oriented, and the more online options we could offer, the more of a comfort zone they would have. We also couldn't get the needed components on our server to provide proper security. Active was the answer to it all. Since January, we've only processed two registrations manually!

What was the transition like?

At first the transition to the upgraded system was a bit scary because I wasn't familiar with the software. But I discovered I could create a customized, master program that only needs slight changes, like dates or other simple aspects; I've got my entire year mapped out! I just activate the specific program. It's seamless.

What are your favorite features?

From a general perspective, all of the features we use have saved us so much time. Active's school management software has streamlined everything. More specifically, registration notification is a big thing. I receive an email letting me know when a registration is complete (or even if it's incomplete). The enrollee also gets a notification; and the credit card processing is ideal. It's slightly more expensive than our prior service center, but when I take into account that the students are essentially doing the labor of registration (data entry) for me, it's completely cost-effective.

What improvements have you seen in the registration process?

Again, the main improvement has been the time saved. In just the short time we've been using Active, the firm has increased the reporting functionality. As a one-man shop Active is essentially my partner, doing a lot of administrative work I would have had to hire someone else to do. I love the freedom I have to access the entire student database from home, any time.

Do you use any of the built-in communication tools?

Absolutely. I can market specific courses as each deadline approaches through the broadcast email function. I've got 23,000 email addresses on our list.

Do you use the reporting features?

I use all of the reporting features. I don't always print out reports, but I can quickly review what's going on, run registration numbers to be sure everyone's in the system for the two-week follow-up and be sure everyone's received their reading materials. It enables me to answer all student requests in a timely manner.

What has your experience been like with Active's customer support team?

We've had a very good experience with Active customer support. Whether contacting our account manager or the support team, I have never had a question go unanswered. It was especially important in the beginning, but I know I could pick up the phone today and get the same great service.

How much time has the system saved you?

Active's school management software has eliminated probably 12 to 15 hours a week that would have been spent on the phone and data entry, allowing those hours to be devoted to coursework and marketing that will further the school. There's no way I could do all the administrative work and the marketing. Active has made it all work.

Active Network can help you streamline online fee payments and simplify student data management.

Call us today to learn more! 1.800.661.1196