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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get information about Training?
Please see the Technology Training Registration site.
What is ERP?
An ERP project gives Fordham a software solution that integrates information and business processes. It enables sharing – throughout the university – of information entered once in a database. Examples of ERP are Peoplesoft, SAS and Banner.
Fordham has chosen to implement Banner as part of our ERP solution. The Banner software will replace SIS, HRS, FRS and Viking. Our ERP also includes the Luminis portal (see below).
There are many benefits that an ERP will provide, such as:
Specific Confirmare objectives include:
• Enhancing workflow and increased efficiency
• Providing a user-friendly web-based interface
• Streamlining processes
• Easing adoption of best practices
What is a Portal?
Web portals are sites on the World Wide Web that provide a single access point to distributed applications. Essentially, content from different areas or applications is all presented on one web page, making it easy for people to find information targeted specifically for them. So, for example, from a single web page, we can access Blackboard, SIS, and e-mail, etc. Instead of hunting the web for information, a person identifies himself to the portal, and the portal brings all relevant information to the person.
Portals use a single consistent web-based front end to present information from a variety of back-end data sources. Information about people is stored in many different databases at a University. This includes student, employee and alumni information, course and library information, etc. The portal provides a single access point to this information so that users don't have to navigate dozens of different web interfaces. Portals can also be customized by the end-user, so that you can decide what ‘channels’ of information you wish to see when you login. For example, you can decide to include your calendar and not include the local weather. Fordham’s portal will be password protected and would only be available to the Fordham University community and designated guests.
Why do we need to replace our current administrative systems?
During the past ten years it has become increasingly difficult to maintain our existing disparate administrative systems. It has been difficult and time consuming to keep systems synchronized, to maintain accurate and consistent data and to generate timely and complex reports. Moreover, we have not taken full advantage of new and emerging technology, including the increased reliance on using the web as a vehicle to conduct business. As a result we are not serving our students, our external constituents and ourselves as efficiently and effectively as possible.
Why have we decided to purchase Banner?
Banner has been developed based on best practices in higher education and is being used by hundreds of colleges and universities nationally. Human Resources, Finance, Student and Institutional Advancement are all integrated into one system and the most recent version of Banner is completely web-based. Our assessment of the Banner product as well as references from other Universities has convinced us that it will support our business in a way that will allow us to stay competitive in the market place.
What role will faculty and staff have in the ERP Implementation?
ERP is a University project that IT is committed to and poised to support. As we move forward with system implementation, we will seek your advice, feedback and expertise in a variety of ways to ensure that we build a system that best meets the needs of your departments and the University. Most importantly, we will rely on you to critically assess the way you currently do business and recommend ways to reengineer your business processes to serve our constituents more effectively.
How will faculty and staff learn how to use Banner?
The University has made a substantial investment in initial and on-going Banner training. We are in the process of developing a training plan to provide you with the customized training that you will need. You will be trained by professionals that understand the system as well as Fordham business processes.
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