University plans major information systems upgrade

UVic is about to embark on a multi-year project to replace its technologically dated and stand-alone information systems. The major undertaking, called Project Nova, will replace these aging systems with an integrated, university-wide, Web-accessible suite of applications.

"This new suite will provide users convenient access to university e-services and up-to-date information for UVic students, faculty, staff and other users on a 24-hour basis, no matter where they are or what technology they choose to use," says Jack Falk, vice president finance and operations. He's chairing a Nova working group in close consultation with Jamie Cassels, vice president academic.

Project Nova will ultimately benefit everyone on campus, replacing the software applications for student records, financial services, human resources and payroll, alumni and donor information and facilities management.

The university plans to release a request for proposals (RFP) for Project Nova this fall and the working group hopes to make a recommendation to UVic to proceed with a replacement system by the end of the year.

During the upgrade, existing applications will be affected, but Project Nova will not result in any key services being disabled or shut down. An information Web site, offering regular updates on Project Nova's progress, will be launched soon.