Procurement Description
The State University of New York seeks to award a single contract to one bidder that will fulfil the role of Project Lead Student Account Design to develop a Unified Student Information Management (SIM) System. The Unified SIM System is a discrete project being undertaken by the Office of Information Technology (OIT) for the purpose of rationalizing and consolidating multiple student information systems and supporting technologies across the System as described herein. The Project Lead will advise the Project Director and Implementation Leads on data and project management, ensuring alignment with SIM project goals. Subject to the requirements set forth in these Project Specifications, the Project Lead may be an individual or a team of individuals. The Project Lead will oversee the SIM project from planning to launch of the SIM and will coordinate with departments, campuses, and vendors to meet project data requirements.
Unified Student Information Management (SIM) System
The Unified Student Information Management system takes a strategic approach to optimize the student journey by focusing on platform rationalization and portfolio consolidation. This involves streamlining and simplifying the various platforms used across campuses to ensure they are efficient, user-friendly, and aligned with the needs of students, faculty, and administrators. By consolidating disparate systems into a cohesive IT environment, aims to eliminate silos, enhance authorized data sharing, and improve the overall user experience. This approach ensures a sustainable and scalable architecture that supports seamless service delivery and provides a strong foundation for future technological advancements.
Contract Term
Two years with an option for a one-year extension.
Scope of Services
The Project Lead Student Account Design will spearhead the development of new Unified Student Information Management System. The Project Lead will provide strategic advice and guidance to the Project Director, Implementation Leads, and Division Directors on data-related and project management matters, ensuring that SIM project strategies align with the overall project goals. This pivotal role will involve overseeing all aspects of the SIM project, from initial planning and design to final implementation and launch. Additionally, this role will
facilitate collaboration between departments, Campuses, and external vendors to ensure all SIM project data requirements are identified, procured, and available to meet the project schedule.
Key responsibilities:
Manage the SIM project lifecycle, including scoping, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure.
Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including software developers, UX/UI designers, and educational specialists, to ensure alignment with project goals.
Develop and maintain detailed project plans and schedules.
Identify and mitigate potential risks and issues to ensure project success.
Ensure deliverables are completed on time, within scope, and within budget.
Communicate project status, progress, and any issues to stakeholders and senior management.
Conduct regular team meetings, provide guidance and support, and foster a collaborative working environment.
Collaborate with Business Analysts (BAs) to translate business requirements into technical specifications.
Work closely with campus representatives to ensure the system meets the needs of educational institutions.
Ensure the final product meets quality standards and user requirements.
Minimum Experience Required:
7 years of experience in managing higher education, government, and corporate projects with a broad breadth of experience in application development is preferred.
Experience in project management providing strategic advice and guidance on project-related matters.
Proven experience in developing and implementing comprehensive data strategies.
Experience in managing data integration processes and developing effective data management strategies.
Microsoft Suite: Microsoft Teams: Communication and virtual meetings. Microsoft Outlook: Email, calendar, and scheduling. Microsoft Excel: Data tracking and reporting.
Microsoft Word: Documentation and project specifications.
Microsoft PowerPoint: Presentations and project updates.
Microsoft OneDrive: File sharing and storage.
Microsoft Project: Project planning and scheduling. TeamDynamix: Used for project management, timekeeping, and generating reports.
SUNY faces technical and organizational challenges, including:
Data Integration: Merging data from various systems is complex.
System Compatibility: Aligning older systems with new technologies is difficult.
User Training: Extensive training is needed for adoption.
Resource Allocation: Significant investments in infrastructure are required.
1. Assessment: Evaluate existing systems, gather stakeholder feedback, and document requirements.
2. Design: Develop system architecture, data models, and user interfaces based on assessment findings.
3. Implementation: Build, test, and deploy the new SIMS, starting with pilot campuses and adjusting based on feedback.
4. Training: Create training materials and conduct sessions for faculty, staff, and students, with ongoing support.
The estimated timeline for each phase will vary depending on the project’s scope and specific needs.
Banner (SIS)
Brightspace (LMS)
Mulesoft
Oracle Databases
Slate (CRM)
PeopleSoft
Jenzabar
CAMS
PowerCampus
Various in-house solutions
Data Integration & Management: Experience with integrating systems like Banner, Brightspace, Mulesoft, and others, as well as managing ETL processes and data governance.
2. Campus-Specific Needs: Ability to understand and manage varying requirements across different campuses & projects.
3. Cloud & On-Premise Solutions: Familiarity with both environments and overseeing their integration.
4. Stakeholder & Change Management: Expertise in managing relationships and leading change across campuses.
5. Educational Technology Knowledge: Experience with SIS, LMS, and CRM platforms like Slate.
6. Waterfall, Agile & Project Management: Skills in Agile methodologies and project management to handle multiple initiatives.
This position is mainly functional in nature, but technical expertise is also required, as these are technology-driven projects. The Project Lead should have experience in:
1. Data Integration & ETL: Managing data pipelines and integration tools like Mulesoft.
2. Cloud & On-Premise Solutions: Familiarity with AWS, Azure, and on-premise environments.
3. Database Management: Experience with Oracle, PeopleSoft, or similar databases.
4. System Architecture: Knowledge of system design and integration for student applications.
5. Security & Compliance: Understanding FERPA and data privacy regulations.