PeopleSoft SAS/HRMS Implementation

Quarterly Report

October - December 1998

System prototyping and deployment

• Continued initial deployment specifications and user testing, data conversion and interface installation in preparation for module implementation, beginning in November 1998
• Implemented Admissions Pre-Application and Course Catalog databases for production
• Continued functional testing in all modules
• Met regularly with PeopleSoft and Cambridge Technology to plan upgrade strategy for PeopleSoft Version 7.5
• Developed detailed project plan for Version 7.5 installation
• Prepared and shipped current database for upgrade off-site at the PeopleSoft upgrade lab
• Received (12/31) and began installation of Version 7.5
• Reviewed needs for interactive voice-response/TouchTone system to work with PeopleSoft and released a new purchasing request for proposal to engage new vendors
• Began introductions to PeopleSoft system for academic and support units

Policy and operational issues

• Continued timely issues resolution and frequent communication with all project sponsors, constituency senates, and project stakeholders

Training and knowledge transfer

• Continued PeopleSoft training for technical and functional staff members
• Continued training and system security work group for development and implementation of a campus-wide training program
• Continued participation in PeopleSoft Higher Education special-interest group

Staffing

• Continued positive and constructive consulting arrangements with Cambridge Technology Partners
• Received one resignation from IT Technical team for the project; hired one new IT Technical team member

Issues

• The inelastic timeframe for implementation of modules continues to require intensive, detailed project planning for appropriate use of staff resources.
• Rapid installation and prototyping of Version 7.5 are required in order to assure that the project will meet production deadlines, especially for Payroll implementation.
• Unit staffing for production environment needs to be verified as end-user training begins.
• Space allocation for project staff and training rooms may need to be increased in 1999.

Activities for January-March 1999:

• Continue planning, design and conversion activities to prepare for system implementation
• Receive and install upgraded database from PeopleSoft upgrade lab
• Implement Financial Aid module (version 7.0) for production
• Begin parallel testing for payroll module
• Implement Payroll module (Version 7.5) for production
• Complete prototyping of PeopleSoft Version 7.5
• Complete development of Financial Aid module, including installation of 1999 Federal Regulations (in both Versions 7.0 and 7.5)
• Complete IVR/Touch-tone RFP process and make acquisition
• Develop and implement campus-wide training program for functional users
• Continue timely review and resolution of policy and operation issues
• Begin development of Web applications to reduce client workstation requirements on campus and to permit WWW facilities for financial aid, registration, personal information update, and human-resources requirements