After several seasons of problematic men’s basketball student season ticket distribution, the UW Athletic Department wisely sought the viewpoint of students. Last week the department inquired about student opinions in the form of an online survey. The results of this survey will be gauged in attempts to fix the problems surrounding student ticket exchange.

We applaud the athletic department’s willingness to gauge student opinion on ticket practices and wish more organizations would be so eager and prompt in measuring the positions of students on matters where their views must be addressed.

Seating for men’s basketball has been determined on a first come, first served basis in which students, after purchasing tickets, would camp out for weeks in anticipation of an exchange date when seats would be awarded. On the exchange day, one student could hold his or her place in line and receive tickets for himself or herself and three other students.

Throughout last year’s distribution, however, the “one-person rule” was outrageously ignored. Complaints to these events have caused the athletic department, on the behest of the Associated Students of Madison, to review its ticket distribution procedures.

By addressing student concerns, the UW Athletic Department decided to take the best possible route to remedy what has been an undeniable problem. With the recent success of the men’s basketball program, demand for tickets increases every year. Through its online survey, it is evident the department wants to conduct the sale of tickets in an equitable, customer-friendly manner to necessitate high student demand.

Through its efforts, the athletic department has displayed a commitment few other organizations have shown in addressing the thoughts and opinions of students. For such actions the department should be highly commended. We encourage other organizations to be wise and follow the example.