The Ucas figures include an analysis comparing applications from school leavers in the poorest and richest areas of England.

BBC: UK university applications down as fees rise

For me, the analysis of potential solutions leads in two directions: First, empowering applications must have more control and quality assurance built in.

FORBES: Can IT Cope With Empowered End-Users?

Participate in the analysis of user requirements and their translation into database models and the implementation of software applications.

UNESCO: Job title

In addition, many applications, such as fraud detection and billing reconciliation, will require real-time analysis at the point of arrival.

FORBES: IBM's Anjul Bhambhri on What Is a Data Scientist?

OpenGamma is betting that the front office and risk analysis processes are now well-understood enough that it can capture the common aspects of these applications in its platform.

FORBES: Open Source for Vertical Apps: Is Wall Street Ready?