Campus Financial Systems for the Future

Getting key stakeholder sign-off

Assuming that the system has passed the test during parallel operation, there has to be a salient buy-in from at least some of the key players at this stage. The system needs to be seen as belonging to the institution, not to the finance organization. The steering committee should also formally endorse the widespread deployment of the system at this time.

If there is an optimal time for the president or chancellor to vocally express support for the initiative, this is it. Expressions of support at any time from project initiation forward are welcome, but with all the unforeseen hurdles that will need to be overcome at actual implementation time, the high-level support at this juncture will be invaluable.

If the representatives of a few schools or departments have been made "early adopters," their endorsement should also be sought now. Have them participate at communication sessions, and carve out a real role for them in that process.

Internal auditing can be an invaluable partner with their knowledge of the various possible soft spots and pitfalls. They should have been an integral and active part of the testing process and should sign off on the integrity of the system at the end of the parallel test period.

Don't wait for everyone to sign off on the system. The endorsement of a smaller number of key players is more important than widespread consensus.

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