Optimizing scholarship distribution: a management information system approach

Abstract

Baitul Mal Unisba (BMU), a zakat-based philanthropic institution, offers scholarships to its students, aiming not only to support their tuition but also to foster exceptional character development. This research addresses a significant challenge at BMU: the inefficiency in its administrative processes due to the absence of a robust information system. The study proposes developing a management information system to optimize scholarship distribution, precision, and accuracy of managing scholarship data - from collection and recording to processing and reporting. This improvement is anticipated to support more informed decision-making in scholarship distribution. The system was built using the Rapid Application Development process, which consists of three stages: requirements planning, workshop design, and implementation. The emphasis is on the optimal use of scholarship funds, time, and manpower. This research made an important contribution by developing a prototype of a web-based scholarship information system aimed at improving the effectiveness of distribution. The newly created scholarship management information system improves these processes by removing duplicate tasks and streamlining the overall workflow. It provides comprehensive data for the decision-making panel, including academic performance, activity reports, and scholarship quotas. Initial testing of the prototype shows that it meets all functional requirements, suggesting its potential effectiveness in resolving the current challenges in BMU’s scholarship selection and distribution process.