Degree Works Integration Update (8.0)

The Platinum Analytics™ 8.0 release marks a change in integration for Degree Works clients.  After evaluating system performance and accuracy with a group of Degree Works partners, the group realized that there are numerous benefits to using the results of the batch audit process.  To that end, clients will need to generate batch audits for import and processing based on a schedule to be arranged with your consultant.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

1.How many times will batch audits need to be generated annually?
 
Consultants will work with you to determine the exact frequency.  At a minimum, the audits will need to be generated at least once for each major term.  If your institution is interested in additional analysis results following key milestones on the academic calendar, then the batch audit process could be completed more frequently (but usually no more than 2-3 times per term).

 

2.What is the student population for the batch degree audit process?
 
Platinum Analytics results are generated for an analysis term (eg. Fall 2017).  When generating degree audits, students enrolled in the analysis term and the prior term should be included.  In other words, the continuing student population as well as any new students who have already registered should be included in the batch audit.

 

3.Are there specific settings for the audits that should be used?
 
Yes.  The Platinum Analytics import must know the audit type and the batch date in order to ensure the correct audit is selected for processing.  In addition, in-progress courses and pre-registered courses should be included in the batch audit process.  The CPA parameter must also be included on the batch audit. Depending on business practices, audits may need to be frozen for a short period of time while they are imported.

 

4.What is the required retention for the audits?
 
In general, audits should be saved for one week to ensure import processing.  If this is not feasible, then an alternate retention schedule can be discussed.

 

5.How does Ad Astra Information Systems™ access the audit information?  Xml, pdf, or printed?
 
Ad Astra accesses the audit result information from the Degree Works tables (DAP_RESULT_DTL, DAP_RESNONCR_DTL, DAP_RESCLASS_DTL).  Therefore, the output itself is not used.  The Degree Works user will need to have its security profile updated to include query access to the tables listed above. 

 

6.Our institution uses a dynamic versus static bridge for updates from Banner.  Are there impacts on the batch audit process?
 
To ensure that all audit data is current, the institution should update the Degree Works data repository (RAD).  Ideally, RAD11 or RAD30 should be updated prior to kicking off the batch degree audit process.

 

7.When are the first degree audits needed?
 
Consultants will work with clients on the exact timing.

 

For further information or questions, please contact your consultant directly.