In this article, we’ll introduce the basic logic behind one of our core modules — the Preference-Based Module, also known simply as the Preference Module.
The Preference Module allows schools to manage student activity selection with flexibility. Schools can set a limit on how many activity preferences each student can choose per day or week. During the selection window, parents and students can freely discuss and update their choices at any time.
Once the selection period ends, a mass allocation process assigns students to activities based on their listed preferences. If more students choose an activity than there are spaces available, the system will randomly allocate spots to ensure fairness, regardless of when the selection was made. You’ll also have the option to manually adjust the allocation results if needed.
Schools commonly use the Preference Module for After School Activities, and it can also be used for school trips or similar programs.
This module is ideal if:
You want students to choose multiple options.
You want control over the final allocation results.
You don’t want students to confirm their activity instantly at the time of booking.
In contrast to the Instant Book Module, where students are instantly confirmed into an activity at the time of booking, the Preference Module allows students to submit multiple choices, and allocations are made later — with fairness ensured through random selection when activities are oversubscribed.
Below is a comparison between the Preference Module and the Instant Book Module:
| Feature / Consideration | Preference Module | Instant Book Module |
|---|---|---|
| Booking Method | Students select preferences; allocation happens later | Students book directly; confirmation is immediate |
| Allocation Control | Admins can review and adjust before confirming | No allocation step; bookings are final unless manually cancelled |
| Fairness | Random allocation ensures fairness when activities are oversubscribed | First come, first served — earlier submissions get priority |
| Use Case Suitability | Best for managing limited spots fairly across a large group | Best for open sign-ups with clear availability |
| Ease for Parents/Students | Requires understanding of preference submission and waiting for results | Simple and fast — book and confirm instantly |
| Common Use Cases | After-School Activities, Enrichment Programs, Trips | After-School Activities, Sports Tryout, Trips, Optional Workshops, Open Enrolment Events |
| Pros |
- Fair allocation - Admin control - Suits limited-capacity activities |
- Instant confirmation - Simple user experience - Suitable for FCFS scenarios |
| Cons |
- Delayed confirmation - More admin work |
- No fairness in oversubscription - No admin review before booking |
To see more comparisons between the two modules, see this article
To start using the Preference Module, see this article for the flow of activity creation.
If you would like to know more about the Instant Book Module, see this article.