The challenge
Manual recruitment and selection processes created inefficiency, inconsistency, and risk for the Department’s NAPLAN marker program. The result? We delivered an intelligent automation solution that combined workflow automation with embedded decision logic and rules.
Each year, the Department for Education SA (DfE) must recruit, train, and pay hundreds of NAPLAN markers in a short timeframe. The process was managed through spreadsheets, emails, and manual checks – creating bottlenecks, errors, and inconsistent decision-making. Without a reliable system, DfE faced significant administrative burden, risk of non-compliance, and a lack of visibility over staffing progress. DfE needed to modernise the process end-to-end, while staying within its Microsoft environment and governance framework.
How we helped
Designed and delivered a model-driven app in Microsoft Power Apps and Dataverse, ensuring full alignment with DfE’s licensing, security, and governance requirements.
Automated the ingestion of marker applications with configurable validation rules and triggers for administrative follow-up
Encoded ranking and selection rules into a configurable scoring algorithm, transforming subjective assessments into transparent, auditable, and repeatable decisions
Built workflows and dashboards to manage offer rounds, role allocation, training compliance, and staffing progress in real time
Integrated historical marker performance data into the selection process to strengthen fairness and quality of outcomes
Streamlined digital contracts by integrating Adobe Sign, connected multiple training systems, and automated payment data flows into Shared Services SA
Results that matter
Speed – Markers were on-boarded well in advance of NAPLAN deadlines, with automated recruitment, contracting, and training workflows reducing turnaround from weeks to days.
Accuracy - Configurable validation rules and integrated data flows eliminated common input errors, improving the reliability of staffing data and reports
Consistency - A centralised scoring algorithm standardised candidate ranking, replacing subjective judgements with repeatable, auditable rules
Transparency - Real-time dashboards gave leaders clear visibility over recruitment status, training compliance, and staffing levels at every stage
Trust - The system’s audit trail, embedded decision logic, and fairer selection process increased confidence among administrators and leadership
Efficiency - Integration with Adobe Sign, multiple training systems, and Shared Services SA reduced reliance on manual admin teams, freeing staff to focus on higher-value tasks.
