These days, most software for Higher Education can have a very stark, business-only look to it, especially if it is primarily geared towards faculty or administrative staff.  But "cute" software-- with soft icons and quirky design-- can appeal to even your most stoic staff members, while decreasing anxiety about adopting new software.  Read on to see how cute software can help your university!

First, Some Definitions

Let's start by explaining what we mean by "cute" software.  We're describing screens, menus, and reports with soft borders, playful colors, or rounded icons.  This might also be considered "user-friendly".  Whatever you call it, it's unmistakable when you see it.

A Stark History & Comparison

The look of modern business-oriented higher ed software is probably greatly influenced by its predecessor: the mainframe.  Mainframes were the first applications to combine screens with data & reporting, but due to limitations they were typically very plain, even boring, not to mention confusing to use.  Check out this image from a typical old-fashioned mainframe screen, and compare it to a screen from Ellucian's Banner 9:

Notice how similar they look?

Screens like the one on the right, while definitely a step up from the green-on-black mainframe screen, is still very stiff and stark, and unfortunately typical of most higher ed software. 

This makes it harder to train employees on the system, and makes your employees want to use it as little as possible.

What Can You Do Instead?

You can look for software with friendly designs and UI.  And of course, we can't help but point out how our open-source academic advising and student success system, FlightPath is designed from the ground-up to be friendly, easy, and even "cute."

Check out this close-up from FlightPath, which cleanly illustrates (through the use of bright colors and icons) what courses the student has completed, and which she has left to take:

Notice, there's no need for training.  For example:  how many hours are needed from Core Social Sciences?  All your faculty needs to do is glance at the screen, and see it written out in plain English, which calms any anxiety they may have about a new system.

Schedule Your Demo Today

Contact us today for more information or to schedule a quick demo. And if you're pressed for time, you can always check out one of our video tours.