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About the Episode
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About the Episode:
In this episode, Mallory and higher ed expert Gil Rogers dive into one of the biggest recent headlines in education technology—the merger of Gravity, Ivy.ai, and Ocelot. They break down why AI-powered chatbots are no longer standalone game-changers, what this consolidation means for institutions, and how next-gen CRMs are reshaping the student experience. If you want to stay ahead of the curve in AI for higher ed, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Key Takeaways
- AI chatbots are no longer a competitive advantage. Early chatbot solutions required heavy human oversight, but today, they are just one feature within broader AI-driven engagement systems.
- The merger signals a shift toward AI-powered student engagement platforms. Gravity, Ivy.ai, and Ocelot are consolidating to offer a more comprehensive AI solution across the student lifecycle—from enrollment to alumni giving.
- Institutions want fewer vendors and stronger integrations. Many schools are moving toward next-gen CRMs with built-in AI, eliminating the need for separate chatbot tools.
- The AI-driven higher ed tech landscape is rapidly evolving. Future mergers and consolidations are likely as vendors race to offer fully integrated solutions that meet institutional needs.
- AI is no longer an add-on; it's becoming the backbone of student engagement. Schools must think strategically about AI-powered solutions and their place within an optimized tech stack.
Why Is the Gravity, Ivy.ai, and Ocelot Merger a Big Deal?
AI-powered chatbots were once a groundbreaking tool for higher ed institutions, helping reduce call center volume and streamline student communication. However, as AI technology has advanced, standalone chatbots have become less valuable. Schools now expect AI engagement tools to be fully integrated into larger systems, rather than fragmented, separate solutions.
Mallory and Gil discuss how this merger reflects a larger trend: EdTech companies must evolve beyond single-use products to remain relevant. By joining forces, these three companies aim to create a broader AI-driven engagement system, rather than offering isolated chatbot functionality. This move underscores the shift toward all-in-one student engagement platforms that span the entire student journey, from recruitment to alumni relations.
The Role of Next-Gen CRMs in AI-Powered Student Engagement
One of the biggest challenges institutions face is system fragmentation—managing multiple platforms that don’t integrate seamlessly. Many schools are already using AI-powered CRMs, such as Element451, which come with built-in chatbot features. This raises the question: Do institutions need standalone chatbot tools when AI-enhanced CRMs can handle student inquiries, automation, and engagement within a single platform?
Mallory references a LinkedIn post by Sam Holding, who pointed out that 97% of Ivy.ai and Ocelot customers use older, less AI-driven CRMs like Slate. This suggests that many schools may transition to next-gen CRMs with integrated AI when their chatbot contracts expire. Gil agrees, emphasizing that “good enough” AI solutions embedded within CRMs are often preferable to maintaining separate, redundant tools.
What’s Next for AI in Higher Ed?
AI in higher ed is evolving fast, and this merger is just the beginning of a broader industry shift. As institutions demand fewer vendors and more integrated solutions, additional consolidations in the EdTech space are inevitable. The big question is whether standalone AI-powered tools will survive in a landscape dominated by comprehensive engagement platforms.
Gil and Mallory speculate on what’s coming next:
- More EdTech mergers and acquisitions as companies look to expand their capabilities and market share.
- A continued push toward AI-driven CRMs that eliminate the need for separate chatbot platforms.
- The potential for AI to revolutionize the student experience entirely. Imagine a future where students can simply ask ChatGPT 8.0 about financial aid instead of navigating their institution’s chatbot.
The bottom line? AI is no longer an optional add-on for higher ed institutions—it’s a fundamental part of the future of student engagement.
Connect With Our Hosts:
Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea
About The Enrollify Podcast Network: The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Some of our favorites include Generation AI and Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.
Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
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