Our History

ComSpec International, Inc. has been a leader in the development and implementation of higher education applications and custom software systems since 1983. We combined our years of experience in the education market as a technology leader in developing business applications and database design to create the EMPOWER Student Information System product in 1994.

In January 2022, Phoenix Innovate made an investment in ComSpec. With extensive knowledge and history in recruiting and fundraising in the education market, Phoenix Innovate and ComSpec’s team of visionaries will shape the future of EMPOWER.

The success Phoenix Innovate has experienced with education institutions to reverse their declining enrollment trends through optimizing marketing tactics, data-lead communications and the channels they use will bring tremendous added value to EMPOWER. Our focus is to help our clients achieve a new level of integration, automation and success in achieving their enrollment and fundraising goals.

About EMPOWER Software

EMPOWER was added to the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent research collection on information technology innovation in 1998. The Smithsonian recognizes EMPOWER as “an integrated higher education management system that provides even the smallest colleges with the information technology previously available only to the largest institutions, helping to assure the continuing viability of small colleges.”

EMPOWER was developed through market research and engagement with college administrators, higher education consultants and educational software managers. With a focus on gaining insights around the goals and challenges of key stakeholders in the education market we partnered with a broad cross-section of post-secondary institutions to develop the architecture, interface and features behind EMPOWER.

Our team understands that each institution brings their own set of requirements for reporting, data management, engagement, and budget. EMPOWER is a software as a service that addresses the unique needs of every institution.

EMPOWER manages and activates data with one comprehensive, integrated platform to produce maximum results across key departments – enrollment and admissions, advancement, alumni relations, financial aid, records and registration, billing, human resources and more. This unique software solution provides custom interfaces that solve the challenge all schools face being able to connect their departments with database management, accessibility and empowerment.

EMPOWER’s integrated solutions support educational institutions worldwide. EMPOWER is committed to providing a results-oriented student information system with functionality, value, and quality. We work diligently to drive results in the same competitive environments in which your institution succeeds. EMPOWER embodies innovation, a commitment to client achievement, and real value for money invested.

Ready to Connect?

If your school is looking for a student information system that is simple to use and connects everyone on campus with one central platform, we can help.