Quest upgrade project: A major step forward
In November 2025, the University successfully completed a significant upgrade to the Quest Student Information System (SIS), marking an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to maintain system reliability and security. This upgrade was not just a technical refresh—it was a strategic initiative designed to ensure Quest remains current, compliant, and ready to support the evolving needs of our students and faculty.
The upgrade introduced PeopleTools 8.61 and PeopleSoft Update Manager (PUM) 34, bringing Quest up to the latest supported versions. These enhancements improve system performance, strengthen security, and position us for future modernization. Alongside the software updates, the project included critical infrastructure improvements such as Exadata x9m, enhanced disaster recovery capabilities, and optimized search functionality. These changes collectively ensure that Quest continues to deliver a stable and efficient experience for all users.
Behind the scenes, this project required extensive planning and collaboration across multiple teams. Resource constraints and competing priorities—such as the implementation of Slate and other SIS initiatives—posed challenges, but through careful coordination and the support of external partners, the upgrade was delivered successfully. This achievement reflects the dedication and expertise of all teams involved.
Other 2025 accomplishments
Some of the other great work from the past year
Legal and Immigration Services (LIS) process improvements
Through a request for proposal (RFP) process, the vendor, Onit, was selected, and the improvement project is in the midst of the implementation phase with a go-live target in early 2026.
Workday expansion
The Workday Expansion project had two main goals — implementing the new Recruiting module to replace iCIMS and also the introduction of the new Talent Management module. The Recruiting module made its go-live target this past summer on schedule and on budget. Similarly, the Talent Management module technical implementation was completed and is currently in a pilot project for feedback and final preparation for rollout in 2026.
Microsoft Copilot
Delivered ITPD-led training sessions to educate staff and faculty on the effective and responsible use of Microsoft Copilot, reaching over 700 participants across campus. Assessed institutional requirements for data protection and deployed campus-wide Sensitivity Labels to increase awareness of appropriate data use within Copilot-enabled workflows.
AI Support for IT Service Desks
Designed and built a prototype AI-powered support system to assist Service Desk staff in responding to support requests using existing knowledge base documentation. Further enhancements and refinements are planned for 2026.
JADA
Developed and deployed JADA, an AI-powered digital assistant for co-operative education students. JADA includes a supplemental job board integrated into the student portal, expanding access to employment opportunities and improving the student job search experience.
Upcoming 2026 initiatives
A look at what we'll be working on in 2026
Training & Engagement
Partner with staff and faculty across campus to establish an AI Champion Network. This network will support training delivery, increase awareness of AI opportunities and risks, and provide a structured feedback loop for challenges and insights, all aligned with the University’s Responsible AI Framework.
ERPNext
The ERPNext project is a major initiative to replace the Unit4 financial enterprise system with a modern, integrated solution that enhances efficiency and data interoperability across campus. In 2026, the project will transition from planning and procurement into execution. Key milestones include completing contract negotiations by February and signing agreements by April, followed by the start of the Design and Implementation phase in May, which is projected to run through May 2028. The implementation aims to streamline workflows between Finance and HR, improve reporting, and address campus stakeholder needs.
AI-assisted helpdesk
Complete the build and campus deployment of an AI-assisted knowledge base solution to support Service Desk staff in resolving requests more efficiently and consistently.
Campus AI Compute
Build institutional capacity for on-premises AI compute to support experimentation and operational use cases, leveraging industry best practices to ensure data privacy, safety, and security.