Project Description

Osgoode currently runs over thirty business applications on HCL Domino and other legacy systems.  As part of the Osgoode Business Application Modernization initiative, Osgoode ITS is working with all administrative departments to modernize service delivery by integrating these applications into modern systems.

Project Methodology

Osgoode is taking a collaboration-first approach to the OBAM initiative.  While specific projects impact individual departments, the end result impacts Osgoode as a whole.  Modernizing systems and business processes will enable the law school to provide world-class students to its faculty and students.

• Project Management – Project lists, plans and documents will be housed on the OBAM Integration SharePoint site.  This ensures that information is readily available to all stakeholders and that contributors can collaborate on documents and information sharing.
• Project Collaboration – Various teams at Osgoode will be working closely together to assemble business requirements, determine processes and migrate applications.  Osgoode’s history of excellent customer service and collaborative culture is essential for the success of this initiative.

Project Principles

Osgoode is examining target solutions for the applications using these principles and criteria to find solutions that work well for the Osgoode community:

• Options are evaluated for Market Support, Ease of Implementation, Ease of Configuration and Existing Integration with OUAC, SIS and other systems.
• Systems already in place across York are the preferred options for migrating applications.
• Working with existing central York resources for migrations wherever possible
• As needed, leveraging appropriate third-party vendors and consultants to fast-track some migrations.

Project Tools

The large number of projects across different departments makes it essential to use effective project management techniques to ensure consistent progress.

• Microsoft Lists will be used to track the project portfolio, and provide a high-level status for each project
• Lists will be shared with all departments involved in the project so that they can see live status updates and collaborate in moving forward with these initiatives
• Microsoft Planner will be used to track and assign project tasks
• SharePoint document libraries will be used to collaborate on documents containing critical information about business processes and requirements

See Using Project Tools for resources and training to help use these tools effectively.