THE PROBLEM
Outdated + inefficient transcript processes
The tools currently available to transcript-receiving institutions were not developed to process the variety of formats. Plus, many tools currently on the market rely on outdated technology that can only extract alphanumeric characters.
As a result, significant and time-consuming manual configuration and intervention is required from admissions, registrar and enrollment management staff in order to process these PDF transcripts.
The technology exists. There is huge potential leveraging [it] so the artificial intelligence can flourish to the benefit of the learner, to the benefit of the trainer and the benefit of the employer. (Rick Torres, President & CEO National Student Clearinghouse)
THE SOLUTION
Easing education-to-career paths by emphasizing skills and credentials
The National Student Clearinghouse and AstrumU have launched PDF-to-Data, a machine-learning service that has demonstrated accuracy translating PDF transcripts into an industry-standard data format to enable automated ingestion. The resulting data will be used to optimize processes related to admissions, transfer credit, and financial aid.
The data files can be uploaded directly to your CRM or SIS without any manual intervention.
The best part? No configuration or IT resources are required for you to receive transcripts as standardized data files.
"What's the ROI?"
Receiving schools currently spend ≥$3 to process a transcript.
PDF-to-Data eliminates all or most of the manual data entry and manual validation needed to get a transcript into the receiving school’s systems. It also offers a high accuracy rate that surpasses manual entry accuracy at a fraction of the speed.
"We already use OCR"
PDF-to-Data’s algorithm and models are tuned specifically for transcripts, ensuring high accuracy
Unlike OCR solutions, there is no need for field-by-field mapping for each document. Any changes in transcript format can be automatically handled by PDF-to-Data without having to manually remap fields.
"How will this help with resource allocation?"
Rather than manually keying in and/or verifying transcript data, admissions staff can focus on other value-added activities
Since PDF-to-Data is SaaS solution, there is no need for IT staff for technical support and system maintenance.
"How do I know the converted data is correct?"
Through our Pilot process we achieved 99% accuracy for converted transcripts.
Validation rules are applied to confirm the PESC standard required data elements are accounted for in the conversion. (The PESC standard for post-secondary transcripts standardizes the transcript output to the same terminology and format).
“PDF-to-Data solves the longstanding problem of critical information trapped in a ‘digital paper’ format, like transcripts, that prevents easy access and sharing.” (Adam Wray, CEO, AstrumU)
