STEPS Design Solutions

Most of you have heard of STEPS, read articles about the phases and the people behind the scenes, but you may still be wondering “what is the hoopla all about?” or “how will STEPS affect what I do every day?”

While we don’t have enough room in this article to answer the second question fully, we believe we can give you some ideas by using the analogy of a kitchen renovation. During this remodel, you would keep those things that work well, are attractive, and make your time there efficient and comfortable. At the same time you would replace those items that are outdated or no longer functional. You may even choose to expand your space to make it more functional or create a space that really improves the overall experience.

Phase III of the STEPS program, which is the upgrade of our PeopleSoft Student System from version 8.9 to 9.0, is much like the renovation of a kitchen. Below, we offer three analogies to give you an idea as to what’s being upgraded in our student system, and to describe how those upgrades will improve the experience for all system users including students, faculty, and staff.

Feng Shui!
“Permit” the balance of energies within the space. When considering the layout of the room, strive for harmonious flow throughout the entire area. Create a smooth and flawless path with everything you need at your fingertips.

We have also elevated our Zen with our upgrade. We are re-aligning the existing functionality that students have previously used to request “permission” to enroll in a class, to allow them to do it more quickly and efficiently. In the past, students had to obtain written permission from the faculty member, and then take the permission form to the Enrollment Services office staff so they could then enroll the student in the class. The advanced Class Permissions functionality in the PeopleSoft self service Student Center will allow faculty members to grant students’ enrollment permission online. Students will then be able to enroll in the class online - without having to visit the Enrollment Services office; thus creating a better flow for all.

Don’t waste your energy!
“Swap” out your older appliances with new and efficient ones. There are risks with outdated appliances – such as expired warranties and wasted energy. Home appliances look pretty much the same on the outside, but they vary greatly in terms of efficiency and operating costs. The more energy-efficient an appliance is, the less it costs to run. You can lower your utility bill simply by updating your appliances.Plus, most new appliances offer so many more conveniences at the touch of a button.

During the upgrade we are updating our software as well as updating some existing “appliances” in the student system to make them more efficient. For example, after the upgrade, students will be able to “Swap” classes without visiting the Enrollment Services office. They’ll be able to use the new swap functionality in the PeopleSoft self service Student Center to drop and add classes simultaneously all at the touch of a button.

Enhance the space!
During your kitchen renovation, “plan” for some much needed space. You have wanted more space for a beautiful dining table. This spacious area will significantly enrich your families and guests dining experience for years to come.

We are also making enhancements within Peoplesoft with features that will enhance the student system. Using the new “Planner” feature, students can plan their academic course of studies, based around the requirements needed to complete their academic program, and use that information to complete their course enrollment in as efficient a manner as possible. Advisors will be able to access this information to help their advisees as well, so both students and advisors will benefit from the Planner’s ability to quickly and accurately identify what courses a student needs to take, to complete their academic program.

Hopefully this has offered a visual as to what some of the enhancements to the upgraded student system will provide for our students, faculty, and staff. The timeline for the rollout of these new features is early July. Stay tuned for future articles outlining additional details about the more efficient student system coming soon!

Questions?
Contact cbowers1[at] matcmadison [dot] edu (Chelsey Bowers) at (608) 246-6717.