A New Degree Audit System on the Horizon
by Pat Krekeler
UCit is upgrading the University of Cincinnati's degree audit system to the newest version of DARS (Degree Audit Reporting System), a new Windows-based system called DARwin. This is a full system implementation project because the database, DB2, is also new, requiring a data conversion from the old VSAM (Virtual Storage Access Method) files.
DARwin is very user friendly. Its Windows-based user interface offers drop down boxes, icons, hot keys, etc. The navigational tools are consistent as the user moves through the system. Tabs/Folders are available. With the mouse, the user can collapse or expand tree views of information. The screens are bright and well organized with colors and symbols. Online help is excellent.
DARwin has additional functionality over the older DARS system. The most exciting enhancement is a web interface to enable students to request a degree audit via the web: a wonderful new service to our students!
UCit expects DARwin to come live the first quarter of 2004. Watch for additional announcements in UCit now.
|
