SPACE - Proprietary University and Gymnasium Information System

Abstract

The electronic information age and technology expansion are significantly and rapidly changing the world we live and work in. Consequently, one of the aspects greatly affected by the global modernisation is education, replacing piece by piece less-effective traditional routines by modern, effective and technology-oriented educational procedures. Following this trend, as a groundbreaking university, Sarajevo School of Science and Technology (SSST) has created its own, specialised information system, SPACE, aiming to enrich and complete its quality and high-end educational services. SPACE has two instances: University and Gymnasium. Both instances also allow access through the use of the mobile version of SPACE, created currently only for iPhone users.

This paper presents the key ideas and functionalities of SPACE, motivation behind and benefits of developing custom-tailored information system opposed to purchasing ready-made software in terms of quality, suitability and user satisfaction. It also mentions the advantages of maintaining in-house development team which, in collaboration with other University services and facilities, immediately turns user feedback into useful SPACE integral parts, shaping SPACE according to the users’ needs. This, coupled with constant SPACE customisation and numerous plans for future upgrades and improvements, demonstrates a very innovative approach to technology usage in education, especially in Bosnia and Herzegovina.