As student expectations evolve, universities and colleges are rethinking how they present information to prospective students. Traditional print prospectuses, while familiar, are costly, static, and limited in reach. Enter the digital prospectus - an interactive, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative that meets the demands of today’s digitally savvy audience.
If you’re considering making the shift, this guide walks you through how to transition from print to digital seamlessly using YUDU Publisher, helping you reach more students, enhance engagement, and stay ahead in a competitive recruitment landscape.
Why Make the Switch to a Digital Prospectus?
Before diving into the how, it’s important to explore the why:
- Cost savings through reduced print and distribution expenses
- Environmental benefits with no waste from discarded print copies
- Real-time content updates without the need for reprinting
- Interactive features, including videos, virtual tours, and clickable links
- Wider reach, enabling engagement with international and remote students
- Improved accessibility to cater to diverse needs
Check out some of these examples of a digital prospectus in action on YUDU Publisher...
Step 1: Reimagine Your Content for a Digital Audience
Digital isn’t just about replicating print—it’s about enhancing the experience. With YUDU Publisher, you can transform static pages into engaging, interactive content.
Tips:
- Break up text with visuals, infographics, and video content
- Create interactive course finders with clickable links to detailed information
- Add student testimonial videos to bring stories to life
YUDU Feature Highlight: Use YUDU’s overlay editor to embed videos, pop-ups, and interactive links directly into your prospectus pages.
Step 2: Design with Mobile in Mind
With most students browsing on smartphones, mobile optimisation is crucial. YUDU Publisher offers a PhoneView version - a mobile-first, responsive design that ensures your prospectus looks great on any device.
Best Practices:
- Use large buttons and clear calls to action
- Ensure fonts are legible on smaller screens
- Test the prospectus on multiple devices before launch
Step 3: Host and Distribute Effectively
YUDU Publisher provides flexible hosting options:
- Host on a custom domain to maintain brand identity (e.g., prospectus.youruniversity.ac.uk)
- Create an app version for offline access, push notifications, and enhanced engagement
Distribution Channels to Consider:
- University website with prominent calls to action
- Social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok
- Email campaigns targeting prospective students
- QR codes on physical materials or event signage
YUDU Feature Highlight: Leverage YUDU’s push notification feature - available in the app - to remind students of application deadlines or upcoming open days.
Step 4: Integrate Analytics for Data-Driven Improvements
One significant advantage of a digital prospectus over print is the ability to track engagement. YUDU Publisher integrates with Google Analytics, allowing you to:
- Monitor page views and time spent on sections
- Identify which courses or content generate the most interest
- Refine your content strategy based on user behaviour
YUDU Feature Highlight: Use real-time data to improve your digital prospectus and increase application conversions.
Step 5: Enhance Accessibility and Inclusivity
A truly effective prospectus is accessible to everyone. YUDU Publisher enables the creation of a fully accessible version with features such as:
- Keyboard shortcuts for easier navigation
- Screen reader compatibility for visually impaired users
- High-contrast design options to improve readability
Catering to accessibility needs is not just best practice—it is essential for compliance and inclusivity.
Step 6: Promote and Iterate
Once your digital prospectus is live, effective promotion and continuous improvement are key.
Promotion Ideas:
- Run targeted social media advertising campaigns
- Include links in staff and recruiter email signatures
- Feature the prospectus at virtual and in-person open days
Iterate Based on Feedback:
- Collect input from prospective students, parents, and staff
- Use analytics data to identify areas for improvement
- Keep content up to date with the latest course offerings and deadlines
Why Choose YUDU Publisher for Your Digital Prospectus?
- Easy-to-use platform with drag-and-drop functionality
- Multi-device compatibility with responsive design options
- Interactive features, including videos, pop-ups, and clickable links
- Robust analytics to measure and improve engagement
- Accessibility tools to ensure an inclusive user experience
- Offline access through a dedicated app version
Final Thoughts
Moving from a print prospectus to a dynamic digital version is more than just a technological upgrade—it is a strategic move to reach, engage, and convert more prospective students. With YUDU Publisher, the transition is straightforward, allowing you to create a modern, accessible, and impactful prospectus that stands out in a competitive landscape.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us to learn how YUDU Publisher can transform your prospectus today.
