IPF collaborates with MSU units on major software upgrade

IPF, in collaboration with multiple other units on campus, is currently in the process of developing and implementing a robust new integrated workspace management system (IWMS) called Planon.

WHAT IS PLANON?

Planon is a large software build that will eventually replace critical backend systems for multiple MSU units that are approaching the end of their useful life. A few of the processes that will be managed in Planon include:

• Data management for MSU properties (buildings, byways, real estate properties, points of interest, or other structures), assets (physical items for data management and infrastructure maintenance), spaces (floors, fixtures, finishings, usage, and occupancy), and other supporting data (like personnel, vendors, classifications, and categories);
• Scheduling planned campus maintenance;
• Stock and inventory;
• Purchasing;
• Work orders and billing;
• Capital projects (long-term projects with substantial investments to acquire, plan, build, renovate or maintain MSU’s land, buildings, roads, and other infrastructure);
• Time cards and payroll;
• Reservations for equipment and fleet vehicles;
• and the IPF Service Desk.

In addition to replacing systems that are at the end of their life, Planon will also integrate multiple existing systems and programs that right now function independently. These include key management, finance, purchase orders, construction projects, the data warehouse, and time entry.

The strength of the Planon project comes from the collaboration between multiple units across MSU: Controller’s Office Financial Analysis (FA), Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (IPF), Institutional Space Planning and Management (ISPM), MSU Information Technology (IT), Student Life and Engagement (SLE), and University Procurement and Logistics (UPL).

WHY WAS PLANON SELECTED?

MSU leadership asked that a system be selected that could meet the needs of multiple units, not just now but into the future. So instead of picking separate tools to replace sunsetting systems individually, the project team selected Planon for its strengths and flexibility to support multiple MSU units and processes.

Having one central tool that multiple units use will provide a number of benefits.

• Planon will help standardize processes across units and departments, reducing confusion.
  Staff will spend less time entering data in more than one place.
• The user interface, which is what staff see when using the software, will be more intuitive and user-friendly.
  It will increase transparency for our data and processes, which will reduce confusion and help us address issues much more quickly.
• Standardizing our processes and data structures will make reporting much easier and increase the reliability of our data.
• Customers will see an increase in the quality of customer service in multiple different areas.

Visit the MSU Planon website for more information on this project and to see project updates and frequently asked questions.