Langstane Housing Association
	“We need a digital system which allows potential tenants to submit online housing applications, using a web browser”

“From the start of the project CES provided positive, responsive support and advice, always on hand to answer the project team’s queries or to provide guidance on the best design for the system.  Their experience working with the housing sector and understanding of the Association’s needs were a valuable part of the scoping and design process and they sought to deliver a product which matched our specifications exactly.  Since go-live CES has continued to provide a high level of support, ensuring the project’s continuing success.  So far, feedback from staff and applicants alike has been very positive” – Lynn Cargill, Director of Customer Services at Langstane HA

The client:

Langstane Housing Association is a charitable housing association, founded in 1977. It provides affordable rented accommodation to single people, couples and families who, for various reasons, may not be able to find other housing accommodation.

The challenge:

Langstane receives around 20 applications for housing per day. These were previously submitted on paper and had to be manually entered into the QL system by staff – a time-consuming process which diverted resources from other tasks. Langstane approached CES to develop an online application system, which could be accessed by a web-browser, and which would automatically match applications to suitable available properties.

The technology:

CES developed and hosted a bespoke solution, based on Java and JSP technology, with data stored in MySQL. The solution is accessed by applicants and Langstane Administrators using a web browser

The result:

Prospective clients can now submit applications online, download relevant forms and manage their accounts. The new system has been designed to fit with the look and feel of Langstane’s existing website and Tenant Forum, also developed and hosted by CES, and its login has been integrated into that of the Tenant Forum, allowing tenants to benefit from a single login for both services.

With a separate interface for administrators, the system also enables Langstane staff to carry out a number of management functions. These include recording supporting evidence for applications, viewing points allocations, and uploading applications from the Central Housing Register.

The new system enables Langstane to make more efficient use of resources, and offers greater flexibility to their current and prospective clients by offering an easy-to-use online option, which can also be used to process paper applications.