MSL News

The early Summer 2015 round-up of news, events and developments from MSL

Fri, 12 Jun 2015 15:01:00 +0100

June 2015 - We're pleased to bring you the first installment of our early Summer 2015 newsletter; look out for the next one in a couple of weeks when we have even more news to bring you.

MSL's last of the summer news round-up for student organisations....

Tue, 06 Oct 2015 09:21:00 +0100

October 2015 - Wishing everyone a successful Freshers' Week! We know Freshers' is keeping everyone busy but we also know how keen you are to stay up to date with our news and developments so we've squeezed in this short but sweet late summer newsletter for you to enjoy before the new year starts.

New releases, new developments and new training opportunities - MSL's last newsletter of 2015

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 12:26:00 Z

December 2015 - The end of Autumn term has crept up on us and we're looking forward to finishing off all those last minute jobs so we can enjoy the forthcoming festivities. With that in mind, we bring you our final round-up of news and events for 2015 along with our best wishes for an enjoyable festive break.

MSL UPDATE - Elections, Ideas, Volunteering and The App - all stuff you need to know about

Thu, 10 Mar 2016 10:07:00 Z

You're all busy with elections which can mean only one thing - summer term is nearly upon us. It's been great to see the real-time elections stats in use and initial feedback is that many of you have seen your best turnout in years. You're obviously doing a great job engaging your students!

Re-development announcement, new services and great solutions from the MSL community

Mon, 16 May 2016 10:02:00 +0100

May 2016 - We're guessing there's one big thing on everyone's mind right now - Freshers. The opportunities this presents for engagement, doing business and of course celebrating achievements at the start of the student journey are huge so we hope that the following news, solutions and support activities will help your preparations.

Updates, training and news from the MSL User Group

Thu, 11 Aug 2016 12:36:00 +0100

August 2016 - Summer may mean holidays to anyone who doesn't work in students' unions but to the MSL team and all of you out there getting ready for the new term and Freshers, we know the summer months are a time to put new ideas in place, refresh websites and get excited about bigger and better participation projects.

BLOG: Top Tips for a Fantastic Freshers' Week

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 16:02:00 +0100

Still got loads to do for Freshers' Week? Need some tips and advice? Look no further than our Freshers' Top Tips infographic. Your very own cut out and keep 10 step plan.

How to... run your best ever Election

Wed, 14 Sep 2016 09:56:00 +0100

So, you’ve been tasked with setting up and running your student elections. No pressure, right? Imagine this: Great candidates running for every position, informed and engaged voters, exciting and innovative campaigns, and the highest turnout in years. Sound good? Well, let's make that a reality!

UEA Students’ Union moves its digital engagement forward with the MSL System

Fri, 23 Sep 2016 10:08:00 +0100

23rd September 2016 - “Our digital capacity is a crucial component of our overall transformation strategy - we just can't realize our ambitions for education or students without it. So when we reviewed this area last year we set out to find a partner that could inspire confidence - faster moving, more straightforward to do business with and more understanding of what goes on in SUs than our previous provider. MSL fits that bill.” Jim Dickinson, Chief Executive, UEA Students’ Union

CASE STUDY - ANU Students’ Association makes the move to digital engagement with MSL System

Wed, 28 Sep 2016 15:48:00 +0100

Sept 2016 - "Looking towards the future, we are excited to see how we can leverage MSL to enhance our engagement with the student body, not only for elections but throughout the entire year.” Benjamin Gill, President, ANU Students’ Association

The MSL winter news bonanza - updates, training and news from your community

Thu, 24 Nov 2016 10:18:00 Z

November 2016 - It's never too early to be prepared.... Our winter missive has lots to help you prepare including details of December's Refreshers web briefing and January's Elections training, featuring not one, but two ways to get your team up-to-speed on all things voting related. We also want you to share your knowledge and expertise via the hardware forum on MyMSL and we'd like to welcome UEA Students' Union who are already doing amazing things with their new MSL System.

MSL's final round-up of news and events for 2016

Mon, 12 Dec 2016 15:16:00 Z

December 2016 - As 2016 draws to a close, the team at MSL is still a busy bunch which is why we've squeezed in one last round-up of our news before everyone in the MSL community goes off for their well-deserved breaks. We bring you details of more developments to the MSL System, a heads-up for a hotly anticipated new feature on the App and a warm welcome to another new client to MSL.

Australian National University’s students’ associations choose MSL to support digital engagement

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 10:20:00 Z

13th January 2017 - The Australian National University Students’ Association and the Postgraduate and Research Students' Association have selected the MSL System to support their growing digital membership management requirements. The new system will provide new websites, clubs and societies tools, messaging, e-commerce and community resources for both associations as well as a shared online elections platform.

Easter news, offers and ideas for the summer

Fri, 31 Mar 2017 12:43:00 +0100

April 2017 - British Summer Time has arrived and that can only mean one thing.... you're planning for results day and all the things you need to have ready to showcase what a great student experience looks like. We have tips and offers to get your website looking its best and another of our popular web briefings lined up to get your team raring to go.

CASE STUDY - MSL works with Advanced Exchequer to create bespoke student expenses app

Thu, 14 Apr 2016 09:49:00 +0100

April 2016 - Having worked with a restrictive and cumbersome financial management system for several years, the University of Nottingham Students’ Union (UoNSU) set out to upgrade to something that could automate processes and streamline workflow more easily.

Feeling the heat? Kick back with MSL's cool summer news round-up

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 13:35:00 +0100

June 2017 - MSL Towers has been enjoying the summer weather and, whilst the call of a refreshing drink at the Dirty Duck is strong, the MSL team is staying put not least because we've had such a busy spring and early summer. We're working on a number of new client implementations (watch out for news on who else has joined our happy band of MSLers), the modernisation programme continues to gather pace and Student Group Finances has proven to be very popular.

University of Strathclyde Students’ Association chooses the MSL System to support student engagement

Wed, 19 Jul 2017 10:21:00 +0100

July 2017 - " Our aim is to keep the student community connected and up-to-date with what is happening in and around their campus and the new website affords us the opportunity to do this on a channel we are sure students will embrace." Calvin Hepburn, President, University of Strathclyde Students’ Association

CASE STUDY: Goodenough College's unique student engagement resources

Fri, 28 Jul 2017 14:04:00 +0100

July 2017 - “Adopting MSL for our student intranet has been pain free... bespoke elements have been delivered on time. Although the directory search and user profiles are bespoke to us I am sure they would be of use to many other membership based organisations." Caroline Persaud, Registrar, Goodenough College

Summer news #2 - MSL User Group, GDPR and Training opportunities

Mon, 31 Jul 2017 14:35:00 +0100

July 2017 - With so much exciting/important/engaging stuff going on this summer, we've filled another newsletter with goodies - and many of the following items need your input! We're gearing up to attend Comms By The Coast on the 3rd and 4th August, hosted by the lovely people at Sussex Students' Union. We will see you at the MSL User Group on the 4th, won't we?

Are you ready for Freshers?

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 16:13:00 +0100

24th August 2018 - Still got loads to do for Freshers' Week? Need some tips and advice? Look no further than our Freshers' Top Tips infographic. Your very own cut out and keep 10 step plan.

Students’ Unions choose to provide welfare support services with MSL Student Case Manager

Thu, 13 Aug 2015 13:21:00 +0100

13th August 2015 - The new Student Case Manager module from Membership Solutions Ltd (MSL) is proving popular with students’ unions who run advice centres to support their student members. The new facility – developed with case management experts, Iizuka Software – is designed specifically to manage the diverse welfare issues faced by many students in tertiary education and to streamline the workload of their advisors.

Your quick guide to MSL and the Student Journey

Thu, 06 Aug 2015 09:53:00 +0100

Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just getting started in the world of student engagement, you’ll know how important it is to support students at every stage of their journey. From the moment they begin searching their new campus to the day they don their cap and gown, your role in shaping their experience is huge and exciting. This guide breaks down ten key stages of the student journey, offering practical ideas to make sure every moment matters.

Central Students’ Union to use Membership Solutions Ltd to run all officer elections

Thu, 04 Jun 2015 13:42:00 +0100

3rd June 1015 - MSL has been chosen to provide the elections platform for Central Students’ Union (Central SU) which represents students at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, part of the University of London.

The University of Dundee and its Students’ Association choose MSL Elections

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 12:33:00 Z

The University of Dundee and Dundee University Students’ Association (DUSA) have selected Membership Solutions Ltd’s online elections system to support their staff and Students’ Association elections. The new digital solution will ensure all staff and students at the university can stay informed about and take part in key elections.

MSL update: Your early spring news and events

Fri, 06 Apr 2018 09:42:00 +0100

23rd March 2018 - With the dust starting to settle from elections excitement, we've been delighted to hear that so many of you experienced your best voter turnouts, making use of real-time stats and voting on the App to keep engagement up and encourage members to get involved. Well done to everyone who works so hard at this time of year and congratulations to your new officer teams!

MSL update: we welcome the summer with events and a new look team

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 15:32:00 +0100

June 2018 - As exam fever begins to abate and ball tickets go on sale, it can only mean one thing - Freshers is just around the corner! No, we can't believe it either but we're looking forward to a summer of helping you get ready for arguably the most exciting time of year for your teams and your brand new student members.

MSL update: a post-Freshers autumnal round-up of news, releases and training from the MSL team

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 12:05:00 Z

November 2018 - Whilst Freshers 2018 was the usual fun and occasionally frantic ride we have all come to expect, the MSL team continued with developments and updates and we're pleased to announce that the newest version of StudentLink has been released to the stores. This version will offer users an even more streamlined mobile experience for buying tickets, placing votes and generally interacting with you.

MSL congratulates students’ union winners in the Whatuni Student Choice awards 2015

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 11:05:00 +0100

24th April 2015 - Membership Solutions Ltd (MSL) is delighted to see many of its students’ union clients and universities appearing in the top 10 of the this year’s Whatuni Student Choice Awards, where Loughborough Students’ Union was rated as the best students’ union overall.

MSL update: news and training opportunities for Spring 2019

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 15:46:00 Z

March 2019 - Did you notice anything different about us? No, we didn't get a new hair do - but we did just launch our new branding! We'd love to hear what you think about the logo, colour scheme and the new website. Thank you to everyone who gave us feedback before the launch - we value your input.

MSL announces appointment of new Chief Executive

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 15:32:53 +0100

11th June 2019 - It is with great pleasure that MSL announces the appointment of Gary Bryant as our new Chief Executive.

University of Cumbria Students’ Union to support clubs and societies with Student Group Finances

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 15:57:56 +0100

18th June 2019 - The University of Cumbria Students’ Union will use MSL's Student Group Finances system to improve the support services provided to its clubs and societies. With a growing number of student-led groups the Union has recognised the need to streamline their finance processes for committees and so encourage more activities and participation. Student Group Finances will support this initiative by enabling finance requests to be quickly and easily carried out online.

MSL update - we welcome our new Chief Executive + new summer training schedule

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 10:21:38 +0100

2nd July 2019 - This month, we welcome Gary Bryant to the MSL team - he joins as our new Chief Executive and will be meeting many of you over the coming weeks and months. If you plan to be at this week's NUS Trade Show, you can meet Gary then as he will be in attendance on our stand B76.

MSL update: top tips for tasks this week, training days and an SU success story

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 10:56:30 +0100

24th July 2019 - Campus is buzzing with smartly dressed parents, friends and family and the ocassional roar can be heard from the graduation ceremonies taking place this week. So we know that it's only a matter of weeks before we're in the middle of your Freshers preparations and the excitement that surrounds Results Day. The MSL team is on hand to provide guidance and help with all those annual tasks that will be coming around again soon and Knowledge Base support is just a click away!

Harper Adams Students’ Union expands services with new digital strategy supported by MSL

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 16:00:19 +0100

August 2019: Harper Adams Students’ Union is set to reinvent itself by taking advantage of the MSL System® to broaden its service provision, digitise its manual processes and develop staff resources to keep pace with the changing demands of members.

BLOG: 3 things MSL is doing to future-proof the MSL System

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 14:31:50 +0100

6th September 2019 - We’re sure you appreciate the role data plays within the MSL System; you work with data every day and it drives every decision made in your organisation. But just in case you were in any doubt, data also underpins everything that the MSL System does for you. Read about one of the most important projects in MSL's history and the benefits it will bring...

MSL update: digital strategy case study, training and our new development blog

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 16:39:52 +0100

18th September 2019 - New MSL Chief Executive, Gary Bryant, introduces this issue of our news update which includes: an insight into the digital transformation of long-standing MSL member, Harper Adams SU; the first in our new blog development blog series; and topical training and support ideas to see you and your team into the next academic year!

BLOG: Getting more of your people doing more of the things they need to

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 10:10:57 +0100

1st October 2019 - A new academic year invariably means new staff members, new roles, new tasks and lots of things that need to be done right now to support your members as they settle into the new academic year. This post looks at development work we've done to help simplify the process of assigning permissions and get your team working as quickly as possible.

BLOG: Speeding up access to your events with one simple change

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 13:53:08 +0100

9th October 2019 - Everyone is getting into the swing of the new year and we guess all those shy freshers have thrown away their inhibitions and are queuing up for every event and club night going. To help you manage the logistics of large numbers of 18 to 25 year olds turning up en masse to your venues, we’ve made a change to MSL Door Entry & Venues which reduces the time it takes to redeem tickets on the door.

BLOG: MSL on the road - Australia Sept/Oct 2019

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 16:33:49 +0100

23rd October 2019 - MSL was delighted to see so many of our Australian clients and new contacts recently on a whistle-stop tour of Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra and Brisbane. Here we share a few images of the great campuses we visited.

Improving your online user experience

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 09:44:32 Z

Instant access to everything at any time – that’s the mantra your users live by. Whether it’s travel information, fast food, gig tickets, or current affairs, they expect quick, seamless experiences across the board. Your website is no exception. It’s a hub of information, events, and opportunities that many rely on to support their daily and social lives. So, why shouldn’t they expect the same speed and usability from your site as they get from ASOS or Amazon?

MSL UPDATE - Join MSL's Big Day Out, read the latest dev blog + more training opportunities

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 13:22:50 Z

November 2019 - We are very excited to bring you news of the MSL Big Day Out which will see us touring the UK and Ireland from January to April, bringing the MSL community together in regional user groups. We are in the planning stages now but more details of dates and locations are in this edition of the newsletter.

We love our new animation - what do you think?

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 15:14:15 Z

12th February 2020 - If you've been to one of the MSL Big Days Out (Birmingham and Glasgow so far...) you'll have already seen our fabulous new animation up on the big screen, telling all you need to know about what it is we do here at MSL Towers. Not seen it yet? Here's your chance.....

Secret Life of Students

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 12:46:31 Z

We're sorry to advise that MSL will no longer be attending the Secret Life of Students, WONKHE’s annual student experience. However, the conference sessions will still be going ahead with live streaming available and we are sure the WONKHE team will deliver fantastic content with great speakers at this difficult time. We look forward to working with WONKHE at future events.

MSL Statement - Coronavirus (COVID 19)

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 14:32:13 Z

March 2020 - In light of the developing health crisis, we would like to share some important information with you. Our focus remains on “business as usual” and providing an uninterrupted service to you, our valued customers, whilst remaining diligent and responsive to government recommendations and guidance to protect the health and well-being of the MSL team.

MSL 2020: You've Got This!

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 15:26:59 +0100

June 2020 - The student engagement and participation challenges we're facing are unprecedented. Plans change almost on a daily basis and we know that everyone in the SU community is looking to each other for ideas and support as we approach the start of a new academic year that will be like no other.

MSL 2020: You've Got This! - Guest speakers for August

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 11:49:40 +0100

August 2020 - The MSL 2020: You've Got This! series of briefings, training, knowledge exchange and community events has been shaped by the MSL community. We were delighted to welcome colleagues from the wider SU community to join in the discussion with three fantastic guest speakers in August. Digital transformation, student societies and representation at this time of unprecedented challenges and uncertainty were all on the agenda and each session is now available to view.

MSL works with AbilityNet on accessibility

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 09:44:32 +0100

Sept 2020 - MSL has recently completed an accessibility review with AbilityNet to ensure our website design components help clients to create accessible websites for all their users. Read about the review process, the insights we gained and how we're using the findings to inform our product roadmap.

Updates, improvements and great new features for your MSL System

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 16:44:41 Z

Autumn 2020 release round-up: Our hard working development team was especially busy over the summer so we are pleased to bring you details of some of the newer features and improvements released over the last few months which you may have missed. Many of our developments are driven by the MSL community and so we're always excited to release new features that have been requested by our clients and their teams.

Virtual Christmas Fairs to celebrate and support your talented students

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:37:01 Z

BLOG: Tis the season to be jolly and we know how hard our MSL community is working to get students and staff into the festive spirit, even as students start to head for home. We’re especially delighted to see Christmas Fairs going ahead giving a welcome opportunity for talented students to sell their products over the festive period and beyond. Read how our creative clients are using resources in their MSL System to build attractive and engaging fairs...

MSL's top tips: Six features to help you manage your Student Groups

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 15:53:48 +0100

Need ideas to help manage your Student Groups? Look no further.

MSL's (virtual) Big Day Out - bite-size student engagement!

Wed, 26 May 2021 10:27:17 +0100

May 2021 - The MSL Big Day Out brought together awesome speakers, shared ideas and inspiring discussions all about student engagement and the student experience in this ever-changing environment.

MSL's top tips: Six ways to make it easier for your members to buy from you

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 16:57:41 +0100

Ahead of a hopeful return to more normal campus life, here are six ways you could improve your purchase process for your members - for both face-to-face and online sales to make buying from you a little easier.

MSL's top tips: Offer your members a Black Friday discount

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:46:39 Z

With less than a week to go until Black Friday, if you’d like to offer your members a Black Friday deal on your products then you’ve come to the right place!

MSL and native work together to bring new events tools to students' organisations

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 15:21:22 Z

MSL is pleased to announce a new partnership with native to bring more options for events technology to students’ organisations using the MSL System. A free, optional plug-in for MSL clients provides a range of new features such as digital wristbands, ticket scanning and features to build a following. Used either in conjunction with MSL’s popular events tools or as the sole events platform, the native partnership gives MSL clients more choice and flexibility to promote and deliver great even

The complete volunteering checklist for 2022: MSL's top tips

Wed, 11 May 2022 15:08:20 +0100

Check out our top tips highlighting fantastic features built into your Volunteering & Employability module you might want to implement! Some time-honoured favourites, some brand new, all designed to encourage engagement with your volunteering scheme.

MSL Big Days Out - the 2022 summer series

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 10:57:14 +0100

Looking for ideas, inspiration, collaboration and a preview of some of the great things we're working on to help you do even more to support your students? Then pack your sandwiches and a flask and head over to our first two summer Big Days Out on the 14th & 15th June 2022. We're welcoming great speakers from the MSL Community as well as giving you the chance to ask questions and pick the MSL's team brain...

SU2022 Communities of Practice! Join us for "Data, Dashboards & Decision Making"

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 14:26:54 +0100

Sheffield Hallam University Sports to manage all sports clubs with the MSL System

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 15:19:00 Z

20th February 2017 - “The MSL System will allow us to maintain the strong working partnership we have developed with the clubs over the past 12 months.” Richard McGloin, Director of Commercial Services , Sheffield Hallam University

Promoting your App - Our 9 Step Checklist

Thu, 16 Feb 2017 15:19:00 Z

Summer newsletter part deux - PLUS tell us about your digital successes

Wed, 07 Sep 2016 10:05:00 +0100

September 2016 - OK, so we know summer is officially over but the promise of a mini-heatwave this week means we're clinging onto the flip-flops and shorts for as long as possible. We've had so much good stuff to share with you over the summer months, we're pleased to bring you a final round-up of our news and want to ask you to share some of your successes from the last year.

CASE STUDY - NESCol Students’ Association reaps the benefits of digital engagement with members

Wed, 13 Jul 2016 16:19:00 +0100

July 2016 - In September 2015, North East Scotland College Students’ Association (NESColSA) chose to implement a new membership management platform. The move to digital engagement was planned not only to help the Association better support their students, elections, clubs and societies activity but also to drive the organisation’s development over the coming years.

University of Westminster Students’ Union chooses MSL System for digital engagement

Wed, 10 May 2017 14:18:00 +0100

April 2017 - "The integration, professionalism and advice from the MSL team has been outstanding and we’re looking forward to providing a great experience for our students.” Jon May, Communications Manager, University of Westminster Students’ Union

GDPR compliance update

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 10:39:00 Z

October 2017 - Keep up-to-date with MSL's news and updates on GDPR, helping you to stay informed and assist with your preparation for GDPR compliance.

Elections training week is just around the corner!

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 10:07:34 Z

Top Tips from your MSL community - UCLan SU gives us the lowdown

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 09:51:52 Z

We spoke with Hannah, the communications and marketing manager at UCLan SU to find out what the future holds for the SU - along with some Top Tips to better support each and every student.

MSL team forges new friendships at the AMICCUS-C National Professional Conference

Fri, 05 May 2023 13:13:18 +0100

With our growing community of Canadian students' union, associations and councils, the MSL team has jumped at the chance to join the AMICCUS-C conference in Whistler, BC!

March 2018 GDPR news

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 16:45:00 Z

16th March 2018 - This update links to the ICO's comprehensive information on the six available lawful bases for processing data (legal reason and legitimate interest being particularly relevant).

MSL is officially certified as compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 09:30:00 +0100

8th June 2018 - MSL is officially certified by an independent assessor as compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards PCI DSS v3.2 for Service Providers.

Leicester Students’ Union moves to MSL System to support student engagement plans

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 14:20:00 +0100

11th June 2018 - University of Leicester Students’ Union has chosen to move their digital engagement activities to the MSL System, implementing a solution which incorporates core membership management features including website, online elections, a volunteering platform, student group finances tools and StudentLink.

Introducing The New MSL Feedback Module

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:40:50 +0100

Giving a platform to student to share their opinions, suggestions, positive thoughts and concerns and general opinions is crucial for student organisations in empowering the student voice. Surveys are a great way to do this, and are the go-to method, for many student organisations in gathering this data. We offer Surveys as a functionality within the MSL System® to make sending and analysing them a simple and easy process. With that said, surveys are not perfect.

5 Key Things to Think About When Choosing a Membership Management System

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 15:42:22 +0100

Choosing the right membership management system is a crucial decision for any student organisation. It can shape how efficiently you manage members, streamline operations, and ultimately enhance student engagement. But with so many options available, what should you prioritise? This article breaks down five key things to consider when selecting a system, helping you choose the best system for your student organisation.

5 Ways to Improve Member Engagement For Your Sports Club or Society

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:09:53 +0100

Running a sports club or society is about more than just organising events—it’s about building a strong, connected community where members feel they belong. Engaging your current members while attracting new ones can be challenging, especially when you're trying to build a sense of community and boost event turnout with limited feedback. However, with a few key strategies, you can turn your club into a place everyone wants to be part of. Here are 5 tips to help boost engagement...

MSL's branding story

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 15:02:00 Z

December 2018 - We’ve been spending some time thinking about MSL's brand and identity: what does it mean to you, our MSL community; how do prospective users of the MSL System view the MSL 'brand'; and how do we demonstrate our commitment to providing easy-to-use products that support an inclusive, diverse, accessible and engaging member experience? It's an evolving process - but we've made a start with a new logo, corporate style and, coming soon, a new website.

MSL update: a sizzler of news, ideas, important information (and a preview of our new branding)

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 10:39:00 Z

December 2018 - We can't believe this is our final news round-up for 2018: we've welcomed new clients from the UK, Ireland and Australia; you have embraced our new developments and improvements to your MSL System; and your year-round endeavours in supporting members and engaging with the hardest to reach students are awe-inspiring. We are proud to play a part in what you have achieved this year.

5 Common Mistakes Student Organisations Make with Online Voting Systems (And How to Avoid Them)

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 17:02:59 Z

Transitioning to online voting systems can be transformative for student organisations. Taking elections online offers greater convenience, inclusivity, and transparency. However, they often face significant challenges when implementing an online voting system. Read on to discover 5 common challenges when implementing an online voting system and practical tips on how to avoid them.

7 Key Features to Look For in a Student Case Management System

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 15:35:51 Z

Students often face academic, personal, or financial challenges, but how do student organisations ensure that each student gets the attention and care they need quickly and efficiently? That’s where a case management system comes in! This essential tool helps streamline the process of student case management, ensuring timely interventions and tailored support plans. But what key functions of the system should organisations prioritise?

What is student case management software and why you need it

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 15:36:11 Z

Every student deserves the opportunity to enjoy their time at university. However, like all of us, students face challenges. It's important during these times that there is a system in place so they can feel supported and guided toward a positive solution. Not having a process or system in place can not only impact the well-being of your students but can also have an impact on retention.

A message from Gary Bryant, CEO on Saskia Loer Hansen

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 12:15:30 Z

Digital Accessibility: Best Practices

Fri, 09 May 2025 13:12:35 +0100

Digital accessibility isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s an essential part of a student organisations digital presence. Student organisation’s website, apps, and digital content should be accessible for everyone, including students with disabilities. Making small changes can make a huge difference in creating a welcoming and inclusive online space.

Connecting with Your Students Through Data

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 16:14:56 +0100

In the world of student life, it’s easy to assume that connection comes from the big, visible moments – the bustling freshers’ fairs, late-night events, or high-energy election campaigns. And while these all play an important role in shaping the student experience, the real magic for unions can often be found in the background – in the data. Yes, data. It may not feel as exciting as a confetti cannon, but the truth is, your data holds the stories that make meaningful connections possible.

MSL’s response to the recent client data breach incident.

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 14:24:55 +0100

Winter System Update: What’s New

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 13:27:12 Z

We’re kicking off the new year with a bundle of updates designed to make things easier for staff and smoother for students. Here’s a quick look at what’s changed across the system.

5 Efficiency Wins Every Student Union Can Achieve

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 12:00:32 +0100

Budgets are tightening. Student expectations are rising. Staff teams are stretched. Here's how forward-thinking student organisations are reclaiming time, reducing friction, and doing more with less.

MSL update: change of senior management, new clients and web briefings...

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 16:44:59 +0100

March 2019 - We know a few of you are still in the midst of nominations, campaigning and voting but the frenzy of activity that comes at this time of year is gradually reducing. We hear snippets of great stories about fantastic engagement from nominees, innovative campaigning from candidates and best ever voter turnouts; please send us your highlights so we can share them with the community!

Leeds Trinity Students’ Union to use MSL System® for student engagement initiatives

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 13:17:42 +0100

8th April 2019 - Leeds Trinity Students’ Union has selected the MSL System® to underpin its plans for increasing student engagement through activities, representation and clubs and societies. The MSL System will provide a new website, student groups resources, events and ticketing, ecommerce, integrated online elections and the StudentLink® app.

MSL update: news, features, release details plus a checklist you don't want to miss...

Thu, 16 May 2019 12:23:54 +0100

16th May 2019: The year is slipping by so quickly - spring has arrived, your students are preparing for exams and you're there as always to support them with advice, space to relax and, no doubt, a full calendar of events, parties and celebrations to look forward to. The MSL team has already seen a number of hugely successful ticketed events promoted on your websites and StudentLink® and we've enjoyed working with many of you to make sure everything goes smoothly.

CASE STUDY: Edinburgh University Sports Union achieves engagement goals with the MSL System®

Mon, 20 May 2019 16:52:47 +0100

May 2019 - Edinburgh University Sports’ Union (EUSU) joined the MSL community in 2016, following a search for the digital resources needed to support the diverse requirements of their clubs, members and recreational sport participants. Read how the MSL System® has helped EUSU grow club memberships, promote events, sell tickets and increase participation in non-BUCS sports by 90%.

Royal College of Art Students’ Union chooses the MSL System® to support cross-campus engagement

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 15:01:39 +0100

3rd June 2019 - The Royal College of Art Students’ Union has chosen to work with Membership Solutions Ltd on a brand new website incorporating a student voice platform, club and society resources, online elections and StudentLink® app. The new membership management solution will help bring together students from the College’s three campuses in London.

MSL update: summer training opportunities and new client news!

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 15:32:05 +0100

June 2019 - Not that we want to worry anyone but you have started to plan for Freshers, haven't you? Your student members might be tripping off soon to enjoy a long summer break but we know that you'll just be getting started on plans for the busiest time of year. So we're pleased to bring you details of summer training sessions timed to get your team ready with a skills refresh and top tips to make the next few months go smoothly.

University of Buckingham selects the MSL System™ to support Students’ Union services

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 14:56:55 +0100

31st March 2020 - The University of Buckingham has chosen the MSL System to support the Students’ Union services it delivers for its 3000+ students. The University will use the core MSL System™ which includes events and ticket sales, clubs and societies, feedback resources, and the StudentLink™ app to increase engagement with students both on and off campus and in work placements.

Cambridge Students’ Union implements the MSL System™ to deliver new digital services

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 11:15:30 +0100

October 2020 - Cambridge Students’ Union has implemented the core MSL System together with online Elections and Referenda and Student Group Finances to provide a range of digital engagement services to members. The newly merged under- and post-graduate organisations will offer access to clubs and societies resources, ticketing, feedback and online community tools and online voting through its new website

MSL's festive farewell to 2020

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 16:17:37 Z

Sending our best wishes to the fabulous MSL Community...

A warm welcome to the MSL Community

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 13:24:32 Z

January 2021 - We're delighted to have welcomed so many new members to our MSL Community in the last few months. Look out for some great news stories and case studies of how these organisations are making digital engagement really work for them.

MSL's top tips: Six more features to help you manage your Student Groups

Tue, 18 May 2021 10:44:42 +0100

Need more ideas to help manage your Student Groups? After the popularity of our last "top tips" post, here are some more ideas to help you manage your Student Groups, and make your members' experiences with joining your Sports Clubs and Societies easier!

SU21 Digital (12-16 July) - the digital learning event for SU staff & officers

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 15:15:29 +0100

We were proud to sponsor SU21 Digital - the digital learning event for Students’ Union staff and officers. You can watch back our session with UCLan Students' Union: Review, Reimagine and Revamp the student experience....

MSL's top tips: Helping you prepare for the events fun to come!

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 18:11:35 +0100

It's less than a month until results day and only a matter of weeks before we're in the middle of your welcome week preparations. MSL is on hand to provide guidance and support with any queries you might have; here are some of our top tips to help you prepare for your events.

MSL's top tips: Getting ready for Welcome Week

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 17:47:06 +0100

With Welcome Week just around the corner, to accompany our "Getting ready for Welcome Week" online training sessions taking place w/c 16th August, we've created some top tips to help you prepare.

BLOG: A welcome return to in person Freshers Fayres & Welcome Weeks

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 14:02:43 +0100

September 2021 - MSL's Chief Executive, Gary Bryant, relishes seeing the return of in-person Freshers Fayres and Welcome Weeks for our UK clients after what has been a tough year for the student experience.

MSL's top tips: How to create a ballot page quicklink, and more Elections suggestions

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 12:34:51 Z

Ahead of your upcoming elections, here are some of our tips to help you prepare for this exciting time of year, making the setup and running of your election through your MSL System as easy as possible!

MSL's top tips: Getting ready for Welcome Week

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 10:22:50 Z

With your Welcome and Orientation Weeks just around the corner, whatever it might look like this year, we've created some top tips to help you prepare.

5 reasons why it’s important to build a strong student community

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:58:28 +0100

Join us as we discuss the importance of building a strong student community and how the MSL platform can help. Read our blog.

10 ways to streamline admin tasks and improve your student engagement strategies

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 11:25:55 Z

Learn how to streamline your admin processes and improve student engagement strategies in our latest blog.

MSL achieves Cyber Essentials Plus Certification

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 11:11:47 Z

Empowering Student Engagement With Robust Cybersecurity Measures

How to improve your campus event planning

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:23:57 Z

Join us as we explore how the MSL platform can take your campus event planning to the next level.

Top Tips for boosting volunteering at your organisation

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 08:55:18 Z

Read more to find out how to streamline your volunteering processes and tailor opportunities for your members.

Our Guide to Running the Best Welcome Week

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 15:12:40 +0100

Your Ultimate Guide to Hosting the Best O-Week

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 13:43:08 +0100

Power of Data: The Transformative Effect of Analytics for Student Unions

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 12:30:23 Z

In today's fast-paced and competitive academic environment, Student Unions are under increasing pressure to deliver a high-quality experience and measurable value. The key to success lies in understanding student needs, providing the proper support, and making data-driven decisions that boost both engagement and outcomes. Data analysis is crucial in achieving these goals. However, despite the potential of data to drive meaningful change, many organisations struggle to fully leverage its power.

MSL or SEN PRO: Choosing the best Membership Management Solution for your Students Union

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:50:24 Z

University student organisations are challenged to ensure a positive and continually improving student experience. Choosing the right Membership Management solution for your Student’s Union can make all the difference. With that said, selecting the best one can be daunting, especially when you have so many other things going on.

Top tips to take you and your members from Welcome Week to Graduation

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 11:16:53 +0100

From our SU22 session - we looked at making it easy for your new members to engage with your organisation, great employability features in the MSL System, running fantastic events, elections and advice services plus student group features.

‍The Importance of Student Feedback and How to Manage It

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:29:13 Z

For student organisations, gathering student feedback isn’t just about ticking a box – it’s about forging meaningful connections and building a stronger, more engaged student community. Feedback helps unions understand what students value most, where there’s room for improvement, and how to take action that enhances the overall student experience.

Helping Students Shine: Turning Experience into Employability

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 14:43:13 Z

Volunteering is a big part of the student experience, whether it’s running a society, organising a fundraising event, mentoring peers, or supporting the local community. For many students, it’s a chance to give something back, meet new people, and find a sense of belonging while at university. But increasingly, volunteering is also recognised as a powerful tool to boost employability.

How Integrated Membership Management Platforms Reduce Admin for Student Organisations

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:29:30 Z

Student unions exist to represent students, not to wrestle with admin. Yet for many teams, large chunks of the week disappear into spreadsheets, inboxes, and systems that don’t connect. Membership updates sit in one place. Events live in another. Finance, reporting, and communications all pull in different directions. The result is all too familiar. Work is repeated. Errors creep in. Insight arrives too late to be useful.

Data to Action: Using Insights to Drive Student Engagement

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 10:09:01 Z

Student engagement sits at the heart of student success, satisfaction, retention, and trust. Yet for many universities and students’ unions, engagement can still feel difficult to define, let alone influence. Students interact across dozens of systems, services and activities every day. Each interaction leaves behind data. Too often, that data is fragmented, underused or reviewed too late to make a difference.