Capita announces the launch of its college library management system (LMS) Strato that has been specifically designed to meet the needs of further education (FE) colleges. Born out of Capita's cloud-based LMS and Capita's considerable experience in the academic library market, the software aims to transform college libraries and enhance the overall student experience.
Optimised for mobile devices, such a smartphones and tablets, the cloud-based solution enables students to search for both physical and electronic library resources from a single search box, wherever they are and whenever they want. It also means that staff are able to use tablet devices to provide library services while on the move around the college, increasing the time they have to spend supporting students.
"Following the Government's recent announcement to lift the cap on higher education places, it has never been more important for colleges to provide a great library service. As colleges provide more higher education there will undoubtedly be more emphasis on them to provide students with access to the same experience that they could receive at higher education institutions," said Karen Reece, head of libraries at Capita's software services business. "We've been working closely with further education colleges to create an LMS that would meet students' growing expectations, as well as a system that makes life easier for college staff.
"In addition to improving efficiency and students' experience, colleges will also have the added benefit of being able to integrate our software with self-service kiosks and systems across other departments in their college, such as their virtual learning environment. This will ensure they can offer students a more joined up service in what is a competitive market."
About Capita
Capita's software services business attributes its position as the leading supplier of software solutions to the education, public sector and housing marketplaces to its strong partnership approach. It works closely with customers to provide tailored systems in the disciplines of library management systems, student records systems, customer services, mobile technology, payment collection, income management, integrated housing management, revenues and benefits processing and services and policy training. Capita's customers benefit from a bespoke service, helping them to streamline their processes and deliver a high performance customer-centric service.
Further information regarding Capita's suite of library solutions can be found at: www.capita.co.uk/libraries
Capita plc is the UK's leading provider of BPO and integrated professional support service solutions. With 62,000 people at more than 350 sites, including 70 business centres across the UK, Europe, India and South Africa, the Group uses its expertise, infrastructure and scale benefits to transform its clients' services, driving down costs and adding value. Capita is quoted on the London Stock Exchange (CPI.L), and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 with 2012 revenue of £3.3 billion. Further information on Capita plc can be found at: www.capita.co.uk
