Computer system in the works

By: Jennifer Peryam

Posted: 12/8/04

Eastern is looking into a new computer system, and the Faculty Senate heard about it Tuesday.

The system, SCT Banner, is a group of programs designed specifically for higher education computer systems. Under the current system, information is stored in different databases and formats. Banner centralizes information into a single database, eliminating inconsistencies between the different databases and making information easier to access.

"This is a major technology venture for the university because it will replace Eastern's primary information system," said Bill Witsman, Eastern's project director for Banner. "I do believe, though, that any operation like this will continue to improve the university."

The system will allow students to access information regarding financial aid and degree audits and will be integrated with WebCT.

The program is currently used by the University of Illinois in Urbana- Champaign, Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and Indiana State University. U of I implemented Banner four years ago and has been pleased with the system's results.

"The most popular part of the system at our university has been the student module that allows students to look up financial aid and retrieve grades," said Nicole Udzenija, project manager of communications at U of I.

Before U of I implemented Banner, students had to log on to different registration systems, but they now can go to one place to attain registration information, Udzenija said.

"The incremental cost for Banner will be $45,000 over 10 years, so this would be a cost-saving project," said Jeff Cooley, vice president for business affairs.

Eastern already has a contract with SunGard SCT, the company that distributes the Banner software, allowing Eastern to install and use the Banner software for free.

"Banner will impact everyone at this university; it will allow us to look at ways to improve business and become a much better university," Cooley said.

A contract for Banner maintenance, project management, tools and consultation will be presented to The Board of Trustees in December. If approved, the project would begin in fall 2004 and take about four years to complete.

The Faculty Senate meets at 2 p.m. Tuesdays in Booth Library Conference Room 4440.