 |
What are the top three things you
want your audience to remember? |
Since
so many of us are spreading the word about The Upgrade, we thought it would be
useful to distill the information down into three key messages (but remember to always
tailor content to your audience whenever possible).
Message 1: In April 2015*, we plan to do a systems upgrade that
will affect nearly everyone at the U. To be successful, we need your support... and patience!
Supporting Information
Three PeopleSoft systems will be upgraded: Campus Solutions
(student systems), Enterprise Financial System (EFS), and the Human Resource
Management System (HRMS). Where it makes sense, we are also moving from an
overly customized system to a tried-and-true package solution. Other changes
include a personalized portal; consolidated reporting; automated business
processes; and better infrastructure. Tertiary systems may also be affected.
You’ll need to learn new ways to do things, and we’ll give support and training as needed. As with any upgrade
this big, we expect to have to work out some kinks, so please be supportive during this time.
Message 2: The Upgrade will…
- Support ongoing infrastructure efficiency, supportability, stability, and compliance.
- Provide benefits to faculty, staff, and
students: personalized MyU portal, real-time information, automated processes, and consolidated reporting.
Supporting Information
Upgraded systems will be easier and faster for IT to maintain so we can focus more resources on our mission instead of on behind-the-scenes
operations. Upgraded systems will enable improved processes, such as employee time
management, purchasing, and accounting. And we’ll be in a better position to
leverage new and emerging technologies.
MyU will feature personalized information and let you manage your interests and favorites. Go to MyU for things like:
- Real-time personal notifications and financials
- Real-time class schedules, grades, and waitlists
- Research, teaching, and advising tools
- Consolidated reporting (UM Reports, UM Analytics, some PS reports)
- Access to UMarket and purchasing information
- Employee time management and approvals
Message 3: The Upgrade will take one to two
weeks. During that time, you won’t be able to use some systems. For example, some systems will have view-only information that is not "live." You will need to prepare -- we will help you.
Supporting Information
Because we are upgrading several complex systems in sequence,
the process will take longer than previous upgrades. We are working to
minimize the impact but you may need to take some actions beforehand, like
making loan or vendor payments, entering and approving employee time, or making
sure your software is up-to-date. We’ll help you prepare – please pay attention
to future communications.
This change is complex, and even though we have taken a lot
of precautions, it’s rare that an upgrade this significant would go off without
a hitch. Please be an advocate during this time. We need your support and
patience to be successful!
*This article was updated on 02/04/2015 to reflect the most recent timing information.
Because we are upgrading several complex systems in sequence,
the process will take longer than previous upgrades. We are working to
minimize the impact but you may need to take some actions beforehand, like
making loan or vendor payments, entering and approving employee time, or making
sure your software is up-to-date. We’ll help you prepare – please pay attention
to future communications. 
