Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) operator UQ Student Housing has developed a largely in-house digital platform designed to simplify the student journey, reduce unnecessary administration and give staff more time to focus on supporting students.
The platform’s development has been led by UQ’s Marketing Manager Neil Jefferson. UQ illustrates how investment in technology, affordability and community can come together to improve the student experience.
UQ has also developed a connected platform bringing together its own CRM, property information, student enquiries, room reservations and internal management tools. The development represents integrated approach which aims to bring together student bookings, customer relationships, property management and communications.
Features on the platform include Reserve a Room – allowing students to register their interest without an immediate payment – and Roomie Finder – helping students connect with potential housemates.
Another key technology development is UQ’s AI-powered student assistant Hugo, which is supported by UQ’s internally developed Property Hub, allowing staff to manage the information used to answer student questions about accommodation and services.
In a recent company event, UQ Big Welcome, which attracted over 760 attendees and first-year students, returning residents and the wider student community, enabled students to make connections, settle into university life and develop a sense of belonging.
Providers which use technology to operate more efficiently, maintain affordable rents and invest in the student experience are likely to become increasingly valuable to the wider higher education sector, according to UQ.
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