Since spring 2023, VU has been working on modernising its student information system (SLcM). SLcM is the central administration system for students, managing practicalities such as enrolments, grades, diplomas, and finances. It forms the basis of our education system. SLcM is used by both students and staff and is integrated with over 80 other VU applications.
What will happen?
On Tuesday 22 April, we will move to an updated version of the system. This is a robust migration that will start on Thursday afternoon 17 April and be completed on Monday 21 April so that the new system will be available after the Easter weekend.
Please note: From Thursday afternoon 17 April until Tuesday morning 22 April, the student information system will be unavailable. The link with Studielink will also be temporarily shut down from Thursday, which will become accessible again on Tuesday morning if things go well. No information will be lost in the process.
Why this change?
SAP will eventually no longer support the current platform. To keep the system secure, stable and future-proof, we are switching to S/4HANA, the latest generation of SAP technology. SAP guarantees the maintenance of this environment until at least 2040, with VU retaining all functionalities as they are today. The processes remain the same, but we benefit from better performance and a future-proof platform.
What will change for you?
For most users, little will change. Nevertheless, there are a few important points to bear in mind:
- Logging in with Single Sign-On (SSO)
After the upgrade, you will no longer log in to SAP separately. So you will no longer need your old SAP username and password. Instead, from 22 April you simply use your VUnet ID and password, as you do for other VU systems. This is done via Single Sign-On (SSO).
Please note: the first time logging in may take a little longer or raise questions - this is normal. If in doubt, contact the ServiceDesk.
- Differences in screen display (layout)
The layout of some screens changes slightly, for example the order of fields or drop-down lists. The operation remains the same, but the layout may look slightly different.
What will you notice about going live?
The migration starts on Thursday afternoon 17 April. That is when the old environment will be switched off and the transfer of data to the new system will begin. Interfaces - the links to other systems - will also be transferred to the new environment. This will last until Monday 21 April. During this period, the system will be temporarily unavailable.
Our aim is for users, including students, to experience as little disruption as possible. Together with users, IT has extensively tested all processes to ensure that the system functions properly.
Nevertheless, the transition may raise some questions. We therefore provide clear communication and support. Do you have questions about your login, workplace or how something will work in the system? Then please contact the ServiceDesk. They will be happy to help you - or refer you to the right person.