IT

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Banner software package?

Banner is the vendor’s name for a suite of software products purchased from SunGard SCT Corporation. The suite includes the Student Module (including Student Self-Service and Faculty and Advisor Self-Service), the Luminus Basic web portal, EDI Smart, Luminus Data Integration for e-Learning, selected Oracle database management software products, and others.
What is the SunGard SCT Corporation?

SunGard SCT, headquartered in Malvern, Pennsylvania, is a leading provider of software and services for higher education. SunGard has been in this market for many years and has over 1,300 clients worldwide.
Why are we getting rid of OakSTAR?

While OakSTAR has served Oakton well, its operating environment and architecture are inconsistent with current technological standards and practices. In particular, it employs computer technologies which are no longer supported by software vendors. Oakton cannot continue to operate a mission-critical system such as OakSTAR with technologies that are obsolete and unsupported. OakSTAR cannot be easily enhanced to support the internet interfaces that students, faculty, and staff are requesting.
When will be new system be implemented?

We are currently preparing a detailed implementation plan. At the current time, it looks like the implementation date will be either February 2006 or November 2006. As soon as a more detailed implementation date is prepared, this page will be updated.
Who will implement the new system?

A set of cross-functional process teams from all areas of the College will be responsible for system design and the implementation. For details on these teams please see Who Is Doing the Project? We will also have staff from SunGard SCT to help us.
Who is going to show me how to use the new system?

There will be a detailed training plan developed prior to the “go live” date. There will be several different modes of training provided, including face-to-face, classroom, web-based, and manuals. All Oakton constituencies will have training available. After the “go live” date, we will have extra help desk resources available to help with specific problems.