Why is West Virginia University launching this initiative?
WVU’s current technology systems and processes in the areas of student services, finance, HR and research administration have evolved over several decades through the implementation of standalone technology solutions and without consideration for long-term architectural design or integration strategies. Our aim is to invest in unified, integrated and adaptive systems that will enable WVU to keep pace with technological advancement and cultivate future innovation.
What is the goal of this initiative?
The WVU Modernization Program seeks to transform current-state technologies to advanced IT solutions that support the University’s mission of teaching, research, service and economic development, as well as our goal of becoming the land-grant university of the future. Together, these changes will create an efficient and modern experience for faculty, staff and students.
How will the program be managed?
The Modernization Program team is taking an inclusive approach, forming governance bodies that will make critical decisions throughout the life of the program and advisory committees to engage the broader WVU community and gather insight about new processes and solution. The project team will be reaching out to subject-matter experts across the institution as work progresses. The Workday team, which includes WVU staff and partners from Huron Consulting, is committed to ensuring people get the information they need to know, when they need it.
To what extent do the WVU Modernization Program projects apply to divisional campuses and Research Corp.?
The WVU Modernization Program is part of a unified strategy that encompasses all campuses so that employees and students have a consistent experience no matter where they are. Alignment of the Beckley, Keyser and Morgantown campuses and the WVU Research Corp. is among the key goals.
When you say “land-grant university of the future,” how is that different than today?
The WVU Board of Governors, the Office of the Provost and University leaders need access to real-time data to inform decision-making and ensure we are meeting the needs of our students. It currently can take weeks to get certain information, when it really should only take hours or days. Today’s landscape of higher education is a much more competitive environment and moves at a much faster pace. To remain competitive, WVU needs systems and processes that allow us to operate more efficiently and effectively.
Are we going to eliminate/restructure positions or hire new staff to work in these systems?
The WVU Modernization Program was not created with the intention to reduce positions. However, as we identify opportunities to be more strategic in how we operate, the ways in which certain divisions and units function may change. The job duties of many current employees may shift, but these employees will be provided with opportunities to learn new and exciting technologies and skills.
What will happen to all the old data as new systems are adopted?
Some legacy data will be moved and stored either in the new systems or preserved within another repository for a defined time. WVU will be strategic when deciding what historical data is moved and how long it is retained to ensure we are keeping things with a clear, relevant purpose such as meeting data-retention, audit and compliance requirements.
How can I get involved?
The WVU Modernization Program will require participation from hundreds of faculty and staff throughout the next several years. Advisory and governance committees have been formed, and the project teams will be reaching out to subject-matter experts across the institution as work progresses. The team is committed to collaboration and to ensuring that people get the information they need to know about the program, when they need it.
How can I stay informed?
We will be in touch with further details in the months to come. In the meantime, keep checking modernizationprogram.wvu.edu for the latest updates. Contact modernizationprogram@mail.wvu.edu with any questions.