How to Prove the ROI of University Apps: Understanding Key Metrics

Investing in university apps is a major decision for institutions, and proving the return on investment (ROI) is essential for ensuring long-term success and continued institutional buy-in.

Administrators need clear, quantifiable evidence that their university app enhances student engagement, improves operational efficiency, and drives positive outcomes for both students and staff.

Why ROI Matters for University Apps

University apps are more than just communication tools; they act as central hubs for student engagement, community-building, and administrative efficiency. However, simply implementing an app doesn’t guarantee success. Universities must measure specific key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the app’s effectiveness and understand its true impact on institutional goals.

Key Metrics to Measure the ROI of University Apps

To determine the success of your university app, focus on tracking the following metrics:

1. User Adoption and Engagement

A university app’s success starts with user adoption. The more students, faculty, and staff actively use the app, the more value it delivers. Key engagement metrics include:

• Claimed Accounts – The percentage of students, faculty, and staff who download and register on the app.
• Daily and Monthly Active Users (DAU & MAU) – Frequency of app usage by users.
• Feature Usage Rates – Identifying which features are most utilized, such as event calendars, messaging, or academic resources.
• Time Spent on the App – Indicates whether users find the app useful and engaging.

A recent study found that 30-40% of students want the following in a campus app: personal schedule management; appointment scheduling for advising, financial aid, mental health care and more; live chat options for student services; notifications about emergency or safety-related situations; connections to free food availability on campus; and dining dollars or a dining points tracker.

2. Retention, Belonging, and Student Success Metrics

One of the best indicators of a university app’s ROI is its influence on student retention and sense of belonging. A well-designed app can help students stay informed, engaged, and connected, directly improving persistence rates. Key metrics to monitor include:

• Retention Rates – Compare retention rates before and after app implementation.
• Student Engagement Levels – High engagement correlates with improved student outcomes. Institutions that implement engagement-driven strategies—such as student organizations and community-building events—often report higher retention rates.
• Survey Feedback – Collect qualitative data on how the app contributes to students’ sense of belonging and academic success.

Students who feel a sense of belonging through digital engagement often report greater academic confidence and persistence.

3. Operational Efficiency and Cost Savings

A university app can streamline communication and significantly reduce administrative burdens. To measure cost-saving benefits, track:

• Reduction in Email Volume – Fewer mass emails as communication shifts to the app.
• Decreased Help Desk Inquiries – Self-service app features reduce the number of administrative requests.

4. Community Building, Belonging, and Student Experience

A strong campus community enhances student satisfaction and institutional reputation. Your university app should foster community-building and improve the student experience. Key metrics to measure include:

• Event Attendance – Evaluate attendance rates for events promoted through the app.
• Student Organization Engagement – Track how many students join and actively participate in campus groups.
• Sentiment Analysis – Use in-app surveys to gauge student satisfaction, sense of belonging, and areas for improvement.

Universities using Raftr’s community-building features have seen a 50% increase in student participation in campus events, demonstrating the app’s critical role in fostering engagement. When students feel a strong sense of belonging through digital connections, they are more likely to persist through challenges and stay committed to their academic journey.

Final Thoughts

Proving the ROI of university apps involves tracking key metrics such as user engagement, retention rates, operational efficiency, and community-building outcomes. By leveraging data-driven insights, universities can showcase the tangible benefits of their investment and ensure their university app continues to serve as a vital tool for student success and institutional growth.