Once the the required decision components during Stage I (for example, decision codes, letters, reply forms) have been created, create rules that will automatically add items to the application tab of the person record or the applicant status page.

Making Decision Letters

Before getting started with making decision letters in Slate, take some time to audit existing letters. We recommend printing all current letters and looking for consolidation opportunities. 

Remember that moving the decision process to Slate is an opportunity to restructure current processes. Managing 30 versions of the admit letter can be a difficult task. This is a great opportunity to rethink that business process and pare down the number of decision letters needed.

Make a list of all letters and decision codes to help guide the letter writing process. Here is an example of how a list might look:

Once all decision letters have been organized, add them to Slate using Letter Templates:

1. Select Database on the top navigation bar and select Letter Templates.

2. Select New Letter.

3. Enter the following user configurations in the dialog box:

   • Status: Set to Active.

   • Summary: Give the letter a clear name.

   • Export Code: Leave blank at this time.

   • Effective: This letter may only be assigned to a person after the effective date has passed.

   • Decision: Select the decision code that should be attached to this letter.

   • Letter Type: Leave this set to HTML.

   • Default: Select to make this the default letter for a decision. Typically this is selected when there is just one letter associated with the letter’s decision. 

   • Lookup Applicant: Use merge fields to customize the decision letter. Type in an example test record to view data associated with each merge field.

Multiple Letters for One Decision

As decision letters are created for each decision, they will appear in the letter templates view. Some decision codes may be associated with multiple letters. One decision (such as Admit) may be associated with multiple letters.

These decision letters will eventually be assigned to applicant records. Having clear, distinguishable names will help with this process.