Improved performance with an update to SAS

The Schulich Administrative System (SAS) was first introduced to our working lives in 2011. It was designed to consolidate a number of legacy database applications that were used widely to support a variety of administrative processes. Due to the complex nature of our School's initiatives, education and clinical programs, a database that was as comprehensive as SAS was required. During the past three years, components have been launched to the working database, while others continue to be developed and refined.

Recently, a focus has been placed on structural database design changes resulting in stabilized data and improved performance. Further, an inventory of the modules of the legacy systems is underway and nearing completion. There is more work to do in this area, and in the coming months it is expected that the full analysis will be complete. In the end it is expected that more processes will be identified to migrate to SAS or be supported through existing commercial or corporate resources.

In the past six months, four SAS projects deemed "critical" were undertaken and are complete or nearing completion. These include:

• Implementing a process to facilitate electronic transfer of data between the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and Schulich Medicine & Dentistry for our continuing trainees.
• Integrating SAS records with the new Learning Management System at London Health Sciences Centre which affects student, trainee and faculty mandatory training.
• Completing the HR OneForm Project (Phase 1) - more than 400 staff hires have been initiated using this system since its launch.
  • OneForm Project Phase 2 is under way
• Improving functionality of Medical Student Performance Record process for Undergraduate Medical Education staff.

In the coming months a new project manager will provide increased focus on the further advancement of SAS. Watch for more updates on SAS as we move forward toward completion of this administrative resource.