New Changes Coming to Wolverine Access

03/31/09

On April 20, 2009, a new Wolverine Access (WA) Gateway will “soft launch." This will prepare students, faculty, and staff for upcoming design and navigation changes to WA. Learn more about the MAIS vision and what it means to you.

So, what’s a soft launch?

• A low-profile and initial release of a new or re-designed website.


• During this soft launch phase, both the new WA Gateway and the original WA Gateway will be available for users.

Why is a soft launch a good thing?

• It’s the first stage of a phased rollout that will lead to an actual web portal with a well-publicized, more robust, and user-tested website.


• Use of the new gateway is optional for the time being. Anyone can visit and explore the new gateway at their leisure, but continue to use the current version if they prefer.


• There are no business process or user impacts with a soft launch


• We can get meaningful feedback through usability testing and fine tune the site as we go along.


• We can track usage and monitor performance, which helps us prepare for future phases.


• No updates to MAIS and central office online or print documentation are necessary.

As a Unit Liaison, do you have any action items?

• No preparation for the soft launch is needed. We just want you to be aware of the new Gateway soft launch.


• If you get questions on or after April 20, you can direct questions to the MAIS Help Desk as usual.

What can you and WA users expect on April 20?

• A link to the new gateway in an announcement on the original gateway.


• A link to the new gateway from the Project InfoCenter on the MAIS website.


• Moderate changes to design and navigation on the new gateway, but no new functionality.

Future Phases (Dates TBD)

• Our vision is to create a system interface that uses sophisticated functionality in a consolidated view.


• At some point, everyone will transition to the new WA, how and when is to be determined.


• We’ll keep you informed, as change management will take more significant effort and we’ll look to you for help.