Systems
It is not the intent of this Guide to comment on the different software that is available.
Space Database Software
This is typically part of an integrated Estates management system but some universities are still using in-house developed databases. There is a wide variety of facilities management software to choose from and the software in use extends into other sectors. The statement of requirement should cover all the Estates services you wish to include. The particular requirements for a space database have been produced by SUMS for our Members to assist the system selection process and are available to members on request.
Timetabling Software
Within the SUMS membership two software vendors dominate; these are:
- Scientia with their Syllabus Plus package
- Serco with their Facility CMIS package.
It is important that your system meets your specific needs. You should identify your criteria for choice and select against these criteria. Statements of requirement have been produced by SUMS for our Members to assist the system selection process.
A key consideration when drawing up a statement of requirement is whether you are looking for both exams and lecture timetabling functionality or just one or the other. (Exams timetabling has not been covered in this Guide).
Given the need to both devolve certain timetabling functionality to Schools and the need to integrate the software with other systems, it is imperative that the systems department is involved in any software choices or upgrades. System issues to cover are:
- Can the system work with the Institution’s database standard?
- How will the system fit with the Institution’s portal standard/strategy?
- How many people does the Institution intend to have using the software directly and how many require some sort of browser access?
- How well does the system integrate with student information systems and can the vendor provide a reference site where the systems can be seen working together?