As a component of a comprehensive turnaround strategy designed to improve governance and performance, the Eastern Cape’s Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is upgrading its enterprise resource planning solution.
It anticipates benefits which include greater automation of administrative tasks, enhanced self-service functionality for many functions and improved reporting capabilities.
The upgraded solution is Adapt IT ITS Integrator 3, a complete, modular software solution suitable for small, medium and large institutions, supplied and supported by Adapt IT. It provides the necessary functionality to enable integrated back-office, as well as self-service functions for students and staff.
According to WSU Acting executive director of Operations and ICT Gert Labuschagne, the University is working to improve standards throughout its operations, including academic performance, governance, financial, human resources, IT and teaching and learning technology.
“Upgrading from a system which has served well but which has now reached end of life fits within this strategy. Technology changes quickly and the latest version of Adapt IT ITS Integrator delivers advantages which simply weren’t possible several years ago,” he says.
Brendan Langley, manager: Enterprise Server and Storage at WSU, explains these advantages: “ITS Integrator 3 automates processes that previously required manual intervention and record keeping outside the system. This includes new self-service functionality with the associated workflow routing.”
He adds that the upgraded system allows users in various areas more flexibility and options in doing their work; additional settings and restrictions give system administrators better control over end-user actions and processing.
“It includes functionality to restrict access to records in a multiple campus set-up, while facilitating better communication by allowing information to be sent directly via e-mail and SMS.”
“One of the key advantages of ITS Integrator is the ease with which it is deployed and maintained,” adds Labuschagne, pointing out that partnering with Adapt IT allows the University to focus on its core business of educating, while Adapt IT manages its technology systems.
The benefits of modernised technology will be directly felt by WSU’s academic staff as well as its students. With improved workflows and security built in, the correctness of data is ensured. Significant processes including procurement, leave, admissions and registrations, are automated partially or fully, while ‘iEnablers’ are being introduced which provide managers with the ability to view information and statistics easily.
The improved security and better workflows benefit students, too, who can confidently access data relevant to their studies.
With a student iEnabler planned for rollout later this year or early next year, students will be able to perform various self-service functions, including checking and validating personal details, updating contact details, viewing balances and marks. Returning students may even be able to self-register.
Labuschagne says that with the eventual rollout and use of Adapt IT’s ITS Integrator 3 and its web enablers, WSU is looking forward to improved efficiency and turnaround times.
“The system is designed to enable the flow of the University’s business and will provide more staff with the ability to access and use information, while providing them with the confidence that all information is accurate and secure,” he concludes.