Universities and higher education institutions around the country are constantly faced with new and challenging issues in the ever changing world of technology and data management. Developing an organizational model to accommodate the changing IT environment, and facilitate openness is necessary to meet the demands of increasingly complex federal, state and local oversight of these institutions, along with continually evolving IT needs, and the staff that supports them.
Retiring Old and Complex Data Processes
As new technologies emerge, which will undoubtedly result in cost-savings and improved overall efficiency, IT departments in large universities are challenged with consolidating and upgrading their infrastructure, while minimizing the operational impact the changes will have on the institution and their current platform.
Government and State Legislation Creates Need for Efficient Source of Data
Aside from emerging technologies, changes in state legislation and civil law throughout the nation have increased the burden on state universities to produce records in timely manner. There is a need for a cost-efficient common source of shared data, and existing systems may lack a coordinated approach, resulting in inconsistent compliance and widely varying records retention practices.
Government agencies monitor activities, and penalties for violating laws and regulations are often severe. Universities must emphasize compliance with these laws and regulations. Compliance relies on comprehensive student information systems that manage the student lifecycle from recruiting and admissions, through student services and alumni relations.
