Conclusion

 

This project provided valuable insight into the operations and information systems supporting the Miron Student Center at Kean University. Through our visit and interviews, we gained a clearer understanding of how the Center functions as a vital hub for student life—facilitating room reservations, promoting campus events, and providing services that support both academic and extracurricular engagement. The Center plays a central role in enhancing the overall student experience, and its reliance on information systems like KeanWise and Instagram illustrates how technology supports structured and dynamic processes within a university setting.

Our analysis revealed that while the Student Center performs well in many areas, there are meaningful opportunities to modernize its digital systems and improve user accessibility. From upgrading reservation systems to implementing marketing analytics tools and exploring the development of a student engagement app, we identified several realistic, phased solutions to enhance the Center’s productivity, capacity, and student satisfaction.

Most importantly, this project helped us connect MIS theory to real-world applications. We examined the value chain, competitive strategy, and process structures firsthand, which deepened our understanding of how businesses and institutions use information systems to gain and sustain competitive advantage.

We would like to sincerely thank the staff of the Miron Student Center for their time and openness during our visit. Special thanks go to Mrs. Bost-White, whose insights about facility scheduling and student engagement were especially helpful in shaping our analysis and recommendations. Their support and willingness to share operational details contributed greatly to the depth and quality of this project. Additionally, I extend appreciation to AI tools that assisted in clarifying technical terms and formatting the analysis professionally. This experience has strengthened my understanding of Management Information Systems and how they can be used to transform student centers like the Miron Student Center into smarter, more responsive campus hubs.

Recommendations

 

After a thorough analysis of the Miron Student Center's operations, processes, and supporting information systems, several opportunities for improvement have emerged. While the MSC successfully supports student life and campus events, certain limitations in its systems and processes restrict its ability to scale, adapt, and provide a more streamlined and engaging experience for users. This section offers a set of strategic recommendations that aim to correct inefficiencies, enhance user satisfaction, and strengthen the center’s role in student engagement and campus culture.

 

Identifying Key Issues and Areas for Improvement

One significant area for improvement is the Room Reservation System, which although functional, lacks real-time visibility, mobile responsiveness, and intuitive design. Users often experience delays in processing, confusion over availability, and a lack of notifications for updates or changes. Additionally, the current system requires navigating KeanWise—a platform that many students primarily use for academic functions, not event coordination. This reduces engagement and accessibility, particularly for newer students or club leaders unfamiliar with campus systems.

On the dynamic side, Student Event Marketing, while effective on Instagram, depends heavily on manual effort and lacks a central content management system (CMS) or data tracking interface. There is no consolidated calendar that displays upcoming events in one place, nor a system for students to “RSVP” or receive reminders. Engagement depends heavily on who sees what on their social feeds, which means many events may be overlooked due to algorithm limitations. Lastly, there is no analytics dashboard that student workers or administrators can use to track campaign performance in an organized way.

 

 

Alternative Solutions

To address these issues, three alternative solutions were considered:

Upgrade the Existing KeanWise Reservation Module

This would involve improving the user interface, adding a live calendar view, and implementing real-time booking notifications. It would retain the current infrastructure while enhancing usability.

Create a Standalone Mobile App for the Student Center

A dedicated app could feature room booking, event calendars, mobile push notifications, interactive maps, and integration with Kean IDs. This would provide an all-in-one experience tailored specifically to student needs.

Adopt a Third-Party CMS & Analytics Tool for Marketing

Platforms such as Hootsuite or Later could be used to schedule posts, track engagement, and manage campaigns across social media channels. A shared Google Calendar could also help centralize event information across departments.

 

Evaluation of Alternatives

Option 1, while cost-effective and simple, would still rely on KeanWise's legacy system. Improvements would be constrained by existing architecture, and the updates may take time due to university-wide approval.

Option 2 is the most comprehensive but also the most expensive and time-consuming. Developing a mobile app would require collaboration with Kean IT and administrative approval. However, it offers long-term scalability and personalized features that align with how students consume digital services today.

Option 3 provides a relatively quick win. Using a third-party CMS would streamline content management and improve analytics. Combined with a centralized calendar (Google Calendar or Outlook integration), it would significantly improve student awareness and engagement with less institutional red tape.

 

Final Recommendation

The best path forward is a hybrid approach, combining Option 1 and Option 3 as short-term solutions, while gradually pursuing Option 2 as a long-term innovation strategy. In the short term, Kean should invest in enhancing the KeanWise reservation interface with a live calendar and push notifications. At the same time, the MSC team should adopt a CMS platform to better manage and analyze social media content while launching a centralized digital calendar that syncs across student email, the Kean website, and digital signage in the building.

In the long term, the Student Center should advocate for the development of a Kean Student Life mobile app that integrates booking, event discovery, and social engagement into one platform. This would not only improve operational efficiency but also boost student involvement, satisfaction, and loyalty—providing a meaningful competitive advantage in campus services.

IS Process Analysis

 

Information Systems Analysis

Hardware

Hardware refers to the physical components of an information system that are used to perform various operations including input, processing, and output. At the Miron Student Center, the hardware used includes Dell OptiPlex desktop computers with Intel i5 processors and 16GB of RAM. Staff members also use HP ProBook laptops and Apple MacBook Airs, which provide mobility for meetings and remote work. Cisco Wi-Fi routers and Ethernet switches provide network connectivity throughout the building. Samsung digital signage screens are used in the facility to promote events and display schedules. Overall, the hardware infrastructure currently supports the structured and dynamic processes effectively, though performance can be further optimized by upgrading to newer generation processors and solid-state drives (SSDs), which would increase processing speed and energy efficiency.

Software and Operating Systems

Software refers to the logical programs and instructions that control hardware and enable tasks to be performed. The Miron Student Center uses a range of software, beginning with operating systems such as Windows 11 and macOS Ventura for most front-end workstations and staff devices. Some back-end services that support room reservation and event scheduling may be hosted on Linux-based servers, such as Ubuntu or Red Hat, which are well-suited for web and database services. These operating systems form the foundational layer of the center’s IT infrastructure, providing compatibility with the application software in use.

Application Software

Application software refers to programs that perform specific user-directed tasks. These applications fall into three categories: vertical applications, horizontal applications, and custom-built applications. Vertical applications used at the Miron Student Center include Handshake, which facilitates career connections, and Canvas, which supports academic services. These are designed specifically for the higher education sector. Horizontal applications include general-use programs such as Microsoft Office Suite—particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook—for documentation, spreadsheets, and communication. GroupMe is also used across departments and student groups for informal messaging and collaboration. Additionally, the center utilizes a custom campus event scheduling tool—possibly StarRez or Ad Astra—tailored to manage room bookings and campus events. From the student’s perspective, these software systems are accessible and intuitive, helping users navigate services efficiently with minimal issues.

New Technologies

Emerging technologies have great potential to enhance operations at the Miron Student Center. Artificial intelligence, for example, could be implemented through a chatbot integrated into the MSC’s website or mobile app. This chatbot would operate 24/7 and respond to frequently asked questions about event times, locations, hours of operation, and other services. Another valuable technology is data analytics, particularly through platforms like Microsoft Power BI. The center could use Power BI dashboards to visualize data related to student engagement in events, helping administrators make data-informed decisions to improve programming. Additionally, integrating digital reality such as virtual tours for events and interactive AR-based promotional campaigns could attract more student interest. Technologies like 3D printing may also be considered for student showcases or themed events related to design and innovation.

Files, Fields, and Metadata

An information system is composed of structured data stored in files that contain fields and records. For example, the room reservation system at the Miron Student Center may contain a file labeled “Room_Reservations.” Within this file, each record would include fields such as Room_ID, Reservation_Date, Time_Slot, Event_Type, and Requested_By. Metadata is data that describes other data. In this context, metadata might include information such as “Record created on April 30, 2025, by MSCAdmin” or “Last modified on May 2, 2025.” Metadata ensures that the data is well-documented, trackable, and auditable, which is essential for accuracy and accountability.

Database Management System (DBMS)

A Database Management System, or DBMS, is a software system that enables users to create, manage, and manipulate databases. At the Miron Student Center, a DBMS supports vital operations such as room reservations and event scheduling. Systems such as Oracle, MySQL, or Microsoft SQL Server could serve as the underlying technology, depending on Kean University’s broader IT infrastructure. For instance, when a student logs in to request a room for an organization meeting, the DBMS ensures that the request is recorded, checked for conflicts, and assigned the appropriate time slot and resources. This prevents double-bookings and streamlines space utilization while keeping track of additional requirements such as seating configuration or audiovisual equipment.

Database Applications

Database applications are software programs that interact with databases and allow users to perform actions such as inputting data, generating reports, running queries, and viewing analytics. Within the Miron Student Center’s room reservation system, a database application might include a form where students enter their event request, a report summarizing weekly room usage, and a query that filters available rooms by date, size, or features. These applications are essential for making the database user-friendly and accessible to non-technical users. Screenshots of these forms and reports can enhance understanding, and placeholders or mock-ups may be included in future project materials to simulate the interface if access to live systems is restricted.

Networking and Internet Infrastructure

The Miron Student Center is connected through Kean University’s Local Area Network (LAN), which links all internal devices and services within the building. This network includes switches, routers, wireless access points, and firewall appliances, many of which are produced by Cisco. The LAN allows for the seamless sharing of data and applications within the center and across campus. Internet connectivity is provided through Eduroam Wi-Fi and hardwired Ethernet lines, with traffic routed through Kean’s secure campus network. The domain name used for all online access is kean.edu, which serves as the institution’s digital identity.

Cloud Computing

The cloud plays an essential role in the operations of the Miron Student Center. Cloud-based services allow the center to offload hosting and infrastructure responsibilities to third-party providers. The center uses Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platforms such as Canvas, Handshake, and Microsoft 365. These services are hosted externally and accessed via the internet, allowing for greater flexibility, scalability, and automatic updates. By using the cloud, the center ensures that data is accessible from any device and that system reliability is maintained without local maintenance.

Information System Security and Management

To improve the reliability and integrity of the information systems used at the Miron Student Center, several security and management strategies should be implemented. First, enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) for administrator accounts would significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Implementing role-based access controls (RBAC) ensures that users only access the data and tools necessary for their roles. Regular system audits, vulnerability scans, and backup protocols should be scheduled to maintain resilience against potential system failures or cyberattacks. User education and cybersecurity training for student workers and staff can prevent human error and improve awareness of phishing and data protection protocols. Finally, having a comprehensive disaster recovery plan and regular drills will prepare the center for unexpected data loss or system outages.

The Miron Student Center at Kean University effectively uses a combination of modern hardware, robust software applications, and cloud services to support its dynamic operations. However, integrating newer technologies such as artificial intelligence, analytics, and augmented reality could elevate the user experience. With attention to security, system management, and future-ready infrastructure, the center can ensure long-term operational excellence while enhancing student engagement and satisfaction.

 

Dynamic Process Analysis

The dynamic process selected for this analysis is Student Event Marketing. Unlike structured processes, which follow set sequences, dynamic processes are flexible and can evolve in real-time based on student interests, social media trends, and ongoing campus events. The Student Center uses social media platforms, particularly Instagram, to promote upcoming events, foster engagement, and build a sense of community among students.

The process begins when a new event is planned and organized by student groups, faculty, or campus organizations. Event planners create content—images, videos, and event details—that is tailored to the student body. This content is then shared across Instagram posts, stories, and reels, reaching a wide audience in a format that is visually appealing and interactive. Engagement is tracked in real-time, with the Center responding to questions, encouraging participation, and resharing content from students who attend events. The content is adjusted based on what receives the most attention, such as tweaking visuals, timing, or hashtags to optimize reach and engagement.

The dynamic nature of this process means that the Student Center must be agile, constantly adapting its strategy based on user feedback, trends, and analytics. Instagram's algorithm also plays a role, influencing what posts are prioritized and how content is distributed. The ability to interact directly with students and receive instant feedback through likes, comments, and direct messages enhances the Center’s ability to market events effectively.

This approach allows the Student Center to create a responsive, student-driven marketing experience that is not bound by rigid schedules or procedures. Unlike the Room Reservation System, which is standardized and procedural, the marketing process is about timely, impactful content that resonates with students in the moment. The flexibility of Instagram’s platform enables the Student Center to capture real-time student interests, adjust strategies on the fly, and build relationships with the student body.

 

Structured Process Analysis

The structured process selected for this analysis is the Room Reservation System at the Miron Student Center. This process is highly standardized and follows a clear, repeatable sequence of steps to ensure consistency and efficiency. Students, faculty, and staff who wish to reserve rooms for meetings, events, or programs initiate the process through Kean University’s internal system—KeanWise, which houses a facilities booking module.

The process begins when a user logs into KeanWise and navigates to the reservation section. After selecting a desired room and time slot, the request is submitted for administrative approval. The request is reviewed by Student Center staff, who check for scheduling conflicts, space suitability, and event compliance. Once approved, a confirmation is sent back through the system, and the event is added to the master calendar. If rejected, the requester is notified and invited to revise their request or choose an alternative time or space.

This structured process enables the Miron Student Center to maintain fairness in resource allocation, reduce double bookings, and streamline internal communication. It also provides an electronic audit trail of all bookings, which is essential for transparency and reporting. Staff rely on the KeanWise interface not only to process requests but also to manage room availability, review reservation history, and generate usage reports for campus planning purposes.

By using a structured and rules-based process like the Room Reservation System, the Center minimizes ambiguity, enhances service reliability, and ensures that all users have equal access to campus facilities. The process is supported by formal documentation, scheduled response times, and accountability checkpoints, making it a core operational activity in the Student Center’s value chain.

 

Business Strategy

The Miron Student Center at Kean University operates with a focused differentiation strategy as its core competitive approach. Rather than offering a generic student facility experience, the Center distinguishes itself by curating high-value, student-centric services that are tailored specifically to the needs of Kean’s diverse student population. This strategy is evident in the Center’s commitment to hosting inclusive programs, providing multifunctional spaces, and supporting a wide range of student organizations. By creating unique experiences and spaces that cannot be easily replicated, the Miron Student Center positions itself as a vital hub for student engagement and campus life.

This focused differentiation approach enables the Center to serve its niche—Kean University students and affiliated groups—by delivering exceptional service quality, personalized support, and responsive facilities management. While other universities may offer similar physical structures, the Miron Student Center sets itself apart by fostering a dynamic, community-driven atmosphere that blends social, academic, and cultural programming in one centralized location. The Center’s value proposition lies not just in what it provides but in how it enhances the student experience through tailored services and accessible, inclusive environments.

In alignment with this strategy, the Center continuously collaborates with student leaders, academic departments, and event planners to refine its offerings. This includes using feedback from students and staff to enhance the booking system, streamline operations, and innovate in areas like mobile accessibility and event promotion. By focusing narrowly on a specific user group and delivering superior, student-focused value, the Miron Student Center effectively implements a focused differentiation strategy that supports both its mission and the broader goals of Kean University.

In summary, the Miron Student Center’s business strategy emphasizes student engagement, operational efficiency, and collaborative programming. It seeks to continuously adapt to the evolving needs of the campus community while supporting the university’s long-term mission of student success and community building.

Home

 

Welcome to our MIS project blog dedicated to analyzing the Miron Student Center at Kean University. This site will explore the business strategies, processes, and information systems that support the Center's operations.

We would like to thank Kean University, our professor Thomas Abraham, and the staff at the Miron Student Center for their support and insights during this project. Special thanks to Jordan Mccnear and Mrs. Dana Bost-White.

 

Introduction 

Welcome to our Management Information Systems (MIS) project blog. The purpose of this report is to analyze the operations and systems of the Miron Student Center at Kean University and to understand how information systems support its business processes and strategic goals. This study focuses on the structure, strategy, and technology that enable the Student Center to provide high-quality services and a welcoming environment for students and guests.

The Miron Student Center, located on the main campus of Kean University in Union, New Jersey, serves as the central hub of student life. The facility supports thousands of students daily through its services, including dining options, student lounges, study areas, game rooms, event spaces, and office spaces for student government and campus organizations. As a high-traffic area, the Student Center plays a crucial role in shaping student engagement, hosting both formal events and informal gatherings. The building is staffed by approximately 30 to 40 full-time employees and student workers who manage operations, programming, and facilities. Through these services, the center supports a diverse campus population and promotes inclusivity, engagement, and community building.

The Miron Student Center is supported by Kean University’s institutional infrastructure and collaborates with a variety of internal departments and student-run organizations. Critical processes within the Student Center include event and room reservations, facility management, and student services coordination. These operations rely on internal systems such as KeanWise and facility booking platforms to manage schedules, track usage, and optimize resource allocation.

More information about the Miron Student Center can be found on its official website, which includes event updates, service hours, and booking procedures. Visual materials, including interior and exterior photos of the Center, are included below to support our observations and analysis.

Our team conducted an in-person visit to the Miron Student Center in January and documented student usage patterns and space functionality. In addition, we interviewed a student services coordinator responsible for event scheduling and operations. From this conversation, we learned that the center receives dozens of room requests weekly, mostly from student organizations. The coordinator shared that common challenges include double-bookings, slow update times within the scheduling system, and a lack of mobile-friendly access for booking and notifications. These insights were critical in helping us understand the limitations and opportunities within the current systems.

Data collection took place between mid-March and early April through interviews, online research, direct observation, and email correspondence with Kean staff. The analysis and writing phases followed, culminating in the final presentation of our findings through this blog platform.

Below is a visual representation of our project timeline using a Gantt chart format.