Week 2 Assignment

Kaplan University

12/12/11

Part A

What are the primary reasons for changing the current systems?

Butler University’s IT department provides and is responsible for technologies in the areas of network and systems, administrative, computing, web applications, instructional technologies among others. Staying on top of new innovative technological offerings is key to the success of how the university operates and conducts their day to day business. As stated in the case study readings, “many of the administrative users are displeased with outdated Centex and Centigram capabilities, although they lauded the communication systems high reliability. (Brown, 179)

There was also one major problem with Butler’s current communication system. They were unable to communicate to the entire campus via the current system; in the event of an emergency it would be almost impossible to disseminate emergency information. The overall reason for this change is to improve communication by leveraging newer technologies.

What role did Butler’s IS department play?

Butler’s IS department will be very instrumental during this process. The IS team will first have to assist with the initial assessment of the current systems to identify the requirements for the new systems. Once the requirements are identified the IS department will also help to identify the right systems that will be acquired to replace Butlers current system. During the implementation, transition / cutover, post implementation phases the IS department will play a major role in the execution of each phase of the project.

What are the roles of the vendors?

The ultimate goals of the vendors during this process are firstly to win the contract by promising all the bells and whistles that would impress the customer to choose their product. The vendor