Stage one of Charles Sturt University's integrated customer service network info.csu has begun as the university develops its multi-campus customer service strategy.

Over $1 million has been invested in initial phase of the project that will provide an access point for potential students looking for information about the University either by telephone, facsimile, over the Internet or in person at info.csu shopfronts.

The multi-campus project will involve the construction of a customer service contact facility on the Bathurst Campus, currently underway at the rear of the Founders Cottage. A dispatch facility will be established in refurbished premises on the Wagga Wagga campus linked with the production of promotional material, while shopfronts providing face-to-face contact with potential students will be established at campuses in Albury City and Thurgoona, Bathurst, and at the new Dubbo Campus.

Project Manager Ken Ball, Executive Director of CSU's Division of Communications and International Relations, said the intention of the project is to introduce a more streamlined customer service approach.

"The intention is not to replace existing staff nor assume their entire position but to ensure that the University's customers receive exceptional service from staff who have undergone extensive training in developing and maintaining customer relations."

Access to info.csu, planned for introduction towards the end of 2001, is aimed at servicing the needs of both Australian students and the growing number of international students being attracted to CSU courses.