Kaleidoscope Software Reviews

“Good online scholarship application tracker

Pros

We have been working with Kaleidoscope for the past three years and we couldn't be happier with the service and products they provide. They have made our scholarship application process incredibly easy to navigate for both our members and the review board. The staff is always responsive to our needs and ensure that their services meet our expectations. They also keep us up to date with trends they see across all scholarship applicants.

Cons

It has recently allowed us more flexibility to create and update applications, making it easier to make quick changes. While it's convenient, it can be a bit confusing at times, as I don't want to make any mistakes that could mess up the application. But they are always ready to help if I'm unsure and will double check to ensure everything is accurate.

“Simplifies our application and grant processes

Pros

The software has made a huge difference in our work at PGSF. The ability for students to fill out their scholarship applications online allowed us to continue distributing scholarships even during the pandemic. Before using this tool, we had a manual process that required multiple people to attend in-person meetings to evaluate students. With the new software, we can do this remotely and much faster.

Cons

Some of the Salesforce features, which are integrated with Kaleidoscope, could work more smoothly. The ability to share lists and reports could be simpler.

“The pinnacle of scholarship platforms

Pros

The customer service is unmatched. Many platforms cater only to applicants or clients but not Kaleidoscope. They strive to create the best experience for all users, recommenders, committee members and applicants. Their team listens to our needs and tailors the platform to our program. They respond quickly to questions and have helped me improve my program management. I highly recommend them for anyone in need of an online application platform.

Cons

Email delivery issue is the only issue, where some emails don't reach students. However, its Connect feature helps track which emails have been delivered and which haven't.

“Manage everything on one platform with a mission-driven company

Pros

I've been working with them since 2020 to manage and promote applications for our leadership development program. As someone passionate about increasing education access, finding the right platform to streamline our process was essential and it has been an excellent partner. Their user friendly interface made it easy for us to set up the application and review process and it was intuitive for both the student applicants, their recommenders and our selection reviewers. I really appreciate having a dedicated, knowledgeable customer success manager who is well-versed in our program and needs. Whenever I had a question or ran into an issue, they were quick to respond and provide support every step of the way. Overall Kaleidoscope has been a game changer, helping us manage everything we need on a single platform with a mission-driven company.

Cons

It would be helpful if recommenders could access the system and complete what's needed for students by just clicking a link instead of having to create an account and log in. Many recommenders are busy educators who want a simple, quick way to get in and out.

“It was good to use

Pros

It's a great tool for publishing and processing our scholarship applications. The review board features help streamline the review process, making it easier to score applications effectively.

Cons

It takes time to use it effectively. You need to understand all of its internal processes to access the right pages or sites. The help section points you in the right direction, but it still takes time to search for the right information.

“Amazing program partners for us

Pros

Working with them makes my job worry free. I know our applications and applicants are in good hands. I appreciate their collaborative approach, always listening to our feedback and looking for ways to improve our application. They also challenge us to think outside the box, which is very much appreciated.

Cons

There's nothing I dislike about it.

“Perfect solution for our needs with the best team!

Pros

In short, this platform allows us to offer a scholarship program to students that would not be possible without this automated, customizable and user-friendly platform.

Cons

There are more self driven tasks for administrators, which is understandable but for someone like me who isn't very technical, it can feel daunting and worrying.

“Responsive client support in a well-designed package

Pros

The support team at Kaleidoscope is fantastic. While they don't offer live chat, their email support is fast, and they respond within 24 hours in most cases.

Cons

The website experience is generally good, but there are a few glitches.

“Great experience for managing our annual scholarship program

Pros

It offers a comprehensive scholarship platform that allows users to manage everything from start to finish. I especially appreciate how easy it is to use, and the numerous features available to customize our program. The customer support and training library are also very helpful.

Cons

I have not had any issues with the platform. If something is confusing, I reach out to customer support and they respond promptly to assist.

“Responsive support and a well-designed platform have streamlined our process

Pros

Our teachers (grant applicants) really appreciate the smooth, user-friendly interface for submitting their grant applications. We also love how customizable every part of the application, application process and review process is. Since we started using it, our grant submissions have nearly doubled, as applicants find the platform so easy to use. At the same time, our review process time has been halved, thanks to the simplicity of reviewing and scoring applications. The feedback from everyone involved in our program has been overwhelmingly positive. The price is also incredibly valuable to us as a non-profit. Setting up and integrating was a breeze, all thanks to the fantastic support team.

Cons

There have been a few glitches when we needed the platform the most. The score reporting function is sometimes inconsistent and there are a few aspects of the review process we wish we could tweak. But whenever I have a question or suggestion, I feel heard, seen and considered by the Kaleidoscope team. They have already done so much to customize our process and we are grateful for how much easier it's made our work.

“Thanks for helping us make a difference in our community

Pros

Kaleidoscope has made our scholarship process seamless. Special thanks to the team for helping us every step of the way!

Cons

Pricing is a factor but it's worth it for the services Kaleidoscope provides.

“It makes management a breeze!

Pros

They have an amazing team and top notch customer service. I'm old school, so I really appreciate being able to pick up the phone and get the help I need. I can call or email whenever I have questions and my customer rep always responds quickly and guides me to the right information. They have also been great at customizing their services to fit our unique program needs. Over the last four years, they have listened to feedback from me and other customers, making their platform, reporting and communications even easier to use. Their data integration has really taken things to the next level. The best part is that they are always open to suggestions and constantly improving their services. Like all businesses, they started small and have grown to meet the needs of their customers. I've stuck with it because I don't want to be just another client number at a big corporate firm. We are helping each other grow and get better and isn't that what we're all striving for?

Cons

I'm not trying to sound harsh but I do wish it would remember the small organizations as they grow. They have been incredibly helpful to the little guys and I hope they continue to support small businesses and community-focused organizations as they scale.

“Excellent platform and outstanding service

Pros

I absolutely love the user-friendly platform. It's easy to navigate and update and it's also very easy for applicants to use, which is one of my top priorities. The customer service I have received from them is the best I have ever had with any vendor. They are fast, incredibly friendly and walk me through everything I need help with.

Cons

So far, I have not noted anything negative.