Mobile Data Collection Platform Takes Big Leap Forward

The decision to transition to the Apple platform was carefully made, over a long period of time, in consultation with our Member Campuses, our technology team, and experts in mobile data collection. In short, our Members' suggestions and requests prompted this change as the benefits of the Apple platform became evident: no more tethered syncing would be necessary to upload data or download projects, better data capture capabilities using the touch of a finger rather than a stylus, and enhanced options to capture open-ended comments. When StudentVoice shared our tentative plans about the Apple switch at the last Member Meeting in Seattle, the response was overwhelmingly positive and confirmed that the Membership would support such a change.

StudentVoice has instituted an Exchange Program which will allow any Member Campus to trade in existing Palm devices for new Apple devices at a 5:1 ratio; for every five Palms previously received from StudentVoice as part of your license agreement or purchased directly from StudentVoice that you send us in working condition, we will provide a credit to purchase one Apple device. Devices not provided by or purchased from StudentVoice will not be accepted as part of the Exchange Program. The Exchange Program will be available to all StudentVoice Member Campuses through June 1, 2010.

All of us at StudentVoice are very excited about this development and believe that the forward evolution of our mobile data platform will be considered another benefit of StudentVoice membership.

Apple Transition FAQ

How does the software work?
The software is very similar in concept to the StudentVoice application on the Palm devices, using the latest in handheld technology. The iPods/iPhones use a more durable, full-color, touchscreen; built-in Wi-Fi or EDGE/3G internet access; and a new, intuitive operating system. These new features allow for a similar, yet much more efficient and engaging data collection experience, including self-synchronization. Additionally, StudentVoice will continue to offer training webinars on the use of the Apple devices. To sign up for a free SV Mobile webinar, please click here.

How will I get the application on the devices?
The application is available via the Apple App Store. It can be downloaded directly to each device, without the need to sync with a PC or Mac.

How does the Exchange Program work?
Package your existing Palm units that were provided by or purchased from StudentVoice and include a note that contains your name and your campus contact information and send to:

After StudentVoice receives your trade-in units, we will send you a gift card to the Apple Store to redeem your credit. Then, you can decide how many units you actually want to purchase. When completing the transaction online, you'll use your credit from the Exchange Program to offset some or all of the expense.

What do I send back for the Exchange Program?
You'll need to return five Palm devices (in working condition) and five power sources (the recharging plug) to be eligible for credit towards a new Apple device. You need not send back the sync cables.

How will I buy additional Apple devices?
Aside from the Exchange Program, you can purchase Apple devices directly from Apple or other Apple retailers.

Our institution is Tax-Exempt. How do we claim Tax-Exempt status when purchasing online?
If you place your order on behalf of a tax-exempt organization or individual, please call Apple Store Customer Service at 1-800-676-2775. Be prepared to provide proof of state tax-exempt status for the state where the product is being shipped. The organization or individual name on the order must exactly match the state tax-exempt certificate. Apple does not accept federal tax exemption certificates. Please note that when purchasing in store, you only need to show your tax-exempt certificate.

Do I need to replace all of my Palms at once or can I do it in phases?
We anticipate that some campuses will want to replace all of their Palms with new Apple devices and that some institutions may move slower, based on the desires and budgets of different departments. Feel free to move as slow or quick as you like; StudentVoice will be supporting whichever solution you choose in the short term and campuses can have groups of both types of devices used concurrently through the 2009-10 academic year.

Can I use Apple devices that our department already owns?
Yes, Apple devices (iPod Touch or iPhone) that can run Apple's Apps can be used for your mobile data collection purposes.

What accessories do you recommend for the devices?
Due to the nature of mobile data collection, we recommend that you purchase a protective case for each device. This case will protect the devices in case they are dropped. You can shop for protective cases directly from the Apple website: http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipod/ipod_accessories/cases.

How will the devices be labeled?
Like the PDA devices, you will be able to identify the device ID on the screen within the StudentVoice application. In addition to this indicator, we recommend that you have your iPod Touch/iPhone labeled or engraved. Apple does offer iPod Touch/iPhone engravings. You can find more information on engravings here: http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/ipod/editorial/engraving_giftwrap.

How will support work moving forward?
Contact StudentVoice via phone or e-mail regarding questions or problems. If the problem exists with the physical unit itself, as opposed to the software on it, you'll need to contact Apple directly.

Who will fix and service any broken Apple devices?
Due to the physical construction of the Apple hardware, any devices that require replacement or repair will need to be serviced through the Apple warranty process and cannot be handled through StudentVoice.