Revolutionize Admissions Like VAR Transformed Football

As industries grow and evolve, the old ways of doing things sometimes can’t keep up with new challenges.

Higher education is at this crucial moment - once reliant on traditional selection methods, it now faces an increasingly complex world of diverse applicants and higher expectations. While many universities still cling to outdated processes, the leading institutions have long recognized the need to innovate. Universities like Harvard have achieved close to perfection in their admissions processes by harnessing the power of their worldwide alumni network, adapting to new realities, and setting themselves apart from the competition.
If AI had been available when Harvard started refining its methods, it’s safe to say their system would have been based on AI from the very start.
Today, universities everywhere face the same pressure to evolve, but now, the tools to do so are within reach—tools that can ensure no application is overlooked and help universities make smarter, data-driven decisions.

The VAR Effect
Across industries, technological breakthroughs have revolutionized how things are done, enabling sectors to stay current and meet new challenges. For example, in football, the introduction of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) helped manage the increasing complexity of the game, ensuring more accurate decision-making. VAR didn’t replace the human element; it supported it. In the world of football, where even a team facing relegation stands to lose £85 million in broadcasting revenue, the cost of a mistake is simply too high to tolerate. In such a high-stakes environment, VAR ensures that decisions are as precise as possible, minimizing the risk of costly errors.

Similarly, in higher education, the cost of mistakes in admissions can be just as significant, making the case for adopting AI-driven tools like INSELECT to bring the same level of precision and accuracy to student selection.

Higher education is undergoing a similar transformation. As the field becomes more competitive and diverse, universities need the right technology to stay ahead. The rise of AI presents a unique opportunity for institutions to improve how they select students, making the process more efficient, transparent, and fair—just as VAR did for football.
Importantly, by adopting INSELECT, universities don’t compromise their revenues by rejecting improper candidates. Instead, they secure their financial sustainability by improving student retention rates and their overall reputation, ensuring long-term success.
Enhancing Human Judgment, Not Replacing It
When VAR was first introduced, players, coaches, and fans were wary of the potential disruption to the flow of the game. Many feared it would take away from the human aspect of refereeing. Yet, as the technology proved itself, these fears began to fade, with VAR ultimately enhancing the game.

In higher education, a similar fear exists when it comes to AI-driven selection systems. Universities may worry that technology will replace the nuanced decision-making of their admissions staff. However, tools like INSELECT are designed not to replace human judgment but to support it, helping staff make informed, holistic decisions while saving valuable time, and allowing to process more applications. AI doesn’t take away the human element; it empowers it.

Universities Can Drive the AI Revolution
The implementation of VAR didn’t happen overnight. It required buy-in from all stakeholders - players, coaches, fans - and a gradual integration process through pilot programs. Over time, as VAR proved its worth, it gained widespread adoption across the globe.

The same can be true for AI in higher education. Universities willing to embrace innovation and run pilot projects will be at the forefront of this technological revolution. By taking that first step, they can not only improve their own processes but lead the way for others to follow.
Integration of INSELECT could be a great opportunity for AI enthusiasts in universities around the world to play a role in driving this transformation.
How INSELECT Ensures Smooth Adoption
VAR’s success was also due to the support given to referees as they adapted to the technology. Continuous training, feedback, and refinements helped ensure that VAR didn’t replace referees but instead enhanced their performance.

Similarly, when universities implement AI-based tools like INSELECT, proper training, ongoing support, regular updates, and a personalized approach are essential. INSELECT’s team will work closely with the university, providing tailored support based on specific needs and priorities. Whether it’s staff training or refining the system based on feedback, this partnership ensures the technology becomes a valuable ally to admissions staff, helping them make better decisions while boosting their efficiency.

Affordable AI Solutions for Universities
The financial investment required for VAR is significant. For instance, the Premier League’s £3 million investment in the 2019-2020 season is just one example of the costs involved. And now, VAR is used in over 55 leagues worldwide, proving its value despite the steep costs.

However, the cost of implementing INSELECT is far lower, making it an accessible solution for universities looking to improve their admissions process without breaking the bank. Unlike VAR, which requires costly hardware and infrastructure, INSELECT is a software-based solution that can be integrated into existing systems with minimal investment.
Universities can achieve similar breakthroughs in student selection with far fewer financial hurdles, making it a viable choice for institutions aiming to innovate while staying within budget.
Why It’s Time to Adapt INSELECT
Industries worldwide have undergone transformations with the introduction of breakthrough technologies, ensuring they stay relevant and meet new challenges. In higher education, AI tools like INSELECT provide an opportunity for universities to modernize their admissions processes. By leveraging these innovations, institutions can streamline their selection procedures, make more accurate decisions, and improve the opportunities available to students.

Higher education leaders should look to the broader trend of technological advancement in various sectors, where innovations have helped industries evolve and stay competitive. By adopting tools like INSELECT, universities can not only improve their own processes but also ensure they remain at the forefront of education by providing the support and expertise necessary for smooth implementation and long-term success.

Ready to transform your admissions?
Let INSELECT guide you through the journey of innovation with tailored support, staff training, and ongoing improvements based on your priorities. Start today—because the future of admissions is here, and it’s powered by AI.

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