Newcastle University implements Explorance Blue and MLY to improve student surveys and feedback analysis

Newcastle University has announced the implementation of Explorance Blue and Explorance MLY, tools aimed at improving its approach to student surveys. This move is part of a broader effort to support an institutional priority focused on amplifying the student voice.

The university, a member of the Russell Group, previously used a different system for managing student surveys. However, this older system required manual comment analysis, which was time-consuming and no longer met the institution's needs. 

Rachel Dearlove, Head of Education Policy and Governance at Newcastle University, explained, "The system we were using was clunky, so, as well as the comment analysis issue, it no longer fitted our institutional need."

Explorance Blue and MLY are expected to streamline the process of collecting and analysing feedback from students. These tools will replace two existing systems, allowing for a more efficient management of the university's core student surveys, including the Newcastle Experience Survey, National Student Survey (NSS), Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES), and Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES).

Dearlove added, "We took the opportunity to look at other solutions, and with our People Services team already using Explorance, we began a conversation with them on Blue and MLY. We were very impressed with what they can bring in terms of feedback and analysis, but all round it is a much more flexible solution."

Lucy Blake, Education Policy Manager at the university, highlighted the usability of the new systems. "It is clear just how easy Explorance’s systems are to use, from initial feedback to data analysis. It is simple for the University to see where improvements can be made, and as we are able to get results in a fast and efficient manner, we can respond to current cohorts," Blake said.

The university is also considering the potential for Explorance to support a new entrant survey. “With our previous system and manual manipulation there was always room for error but with Explorance we have all the quantitative and qualitative data in one place. This means we can do the analysis together and start asking why results are the way they are,” she added. 

“It gives our academic colleagues the information they require, what students said we did well and where they suggest could be an area for improvement. Staff can see survey results in a clear and accessible report, which include recommended development areas.

While the implementation is still in progress, the university has already noted the supportiveness of the collaboration with Explorance. “Explorance are very supportive, which is essential,” she said.

 “They answer questions immediately and the team are super helpful which is really important for any institution. We are new to the system, so having access to other institutions already using Blue and MLY across the UK through a regular meeting is very useful as we can share experiences and best practice.”

John Atherton, VP Sales EMEA at Explorance, commented on the partnership, stating, "We are delighted to extend our partnership with Newcastle University, and support the institution in providing a really comprehensive approach to capturing and analysing quantitative and qualitative feedback from their student community."