Frequently Asked Questions
What is OneCarolina?
OneCarolina is the University's multi-year initiative to replace its
outdated administrative computing applications, including Student
Information Systems, Finance, Sponsored Programs and Human
Resources into one easily-accessible, Web-based system.
What is ERP?
ERP is an acronym that stands for Enterprise Resource Planning. It
is a combination of new enterprise computing software and business
practices working together to perform university functions. ERP is a
software suite and contains products designed to integrate data and
business functions across campuses, colleges, departments and offices.
This will produce a standard computer system that serves the needs of
each department on campus. It will run off a single database (Oracle) so
that departments can easily share information and communicate more
efficiently. The strategic approach to providing ERP solutions will
follow the “One University, One Network” model.
ERP will be the major component of OneCarolina, and once fully
implemented, it will affect everyone associated with the University and
make the University’s data management more accurate, convenient,
and easier to access.
How will OneCarolina improve the University?
Through OneCarolina, the University will continue on the
roadmap for better automation and communication for each strategic
business area. OneCarolina puts much of the business management in the
hands of those responsible which provides for more efficient and faster
change control over much of the day-to-day operations. ERP also makes
available real-time secure business information to all areas of the
University through a single, integrated database.
How will OneCarolina change the University?
OneCarolina will affect many areas of the University, meaning that
change will be required. Many job functions may need to change to take
better advantage of ERP functionality. For a successful ERP project,
members of the University will need to support and adapt to such
changes. Without change, the value of this project will be diminished
and will slow team efforts towards University progress.
New software changes always run the risk of frustrating users, slowing
them down and creating a difficult work environment. However, embracing
the vision of ERP will generate a positive attitude and acceptance of
the University’s mission. A significant effort will be made to make sure
the proper training is provided to all customers of the new software.
The additional function and technical capabilities and increased
efficiencies of the new ERP services will help to enhance USC’s stature
and support its primary mission as a multi-campus public institution
serving all of South Carolina and educators.
Why should USC use an ERP solution?
As the largest institute of higher learning in the state, the University of South Carolina has an enrollment of more than 37,000 students, encompassing eight campuses statewide. The desire of the University is to be positioned as an institution of excellence along with achieving an even greater national recognition among peer institutions.
What is the timetable for OneCarolina?
Most ERP solutions take between two to four years as an average for
a completed implementation. However, it is important to know that what
counts is not how long the project will take, but to focus on how it
will improve student, faculty and staff services at USC.
The University has already begun the process of replacing existing
legacy applications (Administrative software) with commercial ERP
projects that will support the current and future academic and business
initiatives. This includes student systems, human resources, finance and
sponsored programs. ERP planning began in the summer of 2004 and will
until the final ERP vendor is selected. University Technology
Services will continue to help maintain and
implement this project working side-by-side with each department as
required. However, each member of the USC community will be impacted.
Success will be met only with University-wide support and commitment on
all levels.
Will there be training?
Training will be available for all users of the system during
implementation. Specialized training will be available for specific
groups depending on their individual needs.
Will I have to upgrade my computer?
OneCarolina will be Web-based. A list of minimum computer requirements, including qualified browsers, will be available on this site once the ERP software has been selected.
Can I use a Macintosh to access OneCarolina?
Yes. OneCarolina will be Web-based, so you will be able to use a Mac
as long as it meets the minimum computer requirements, has an Internet
connection, and a qualified browser.
What will happen to VIP?
OneCarolina will eventually replace VIP and will offer you more
services than currently available.
How will OneCarolina affect students?
OneCarolina will provide students with a Web-based self-service
system where they will be able to perform most of their administrative
needs. We expect to offer additional self-service features and allow
students to customize their needs.
How will I access OneCarolina?
All systems that a user will be authorized to access will be entered
through a password-protected Internet portal. Because it will be
Web-based, users will be able to log on anytime and anywhere—even from
home.
What is a portal?
A portal is a website that provides a single point of access to
e-mail, calendar, and customized content for students, faculty, and
staff.
Where can I get more information?
If your questions and/or concerns were not covered on the
OneCarolina website, please send an e-mail to us at
onecarolina@sc.edu. We'll
do our best to answer your questions.
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