Students and faculty might not know it, but there are some big changes on the way.

By April 2004, Missouri Southern will go to a new computer management system. Virtually all of Southern’s records and data programs, which include registration and admissions, will be transferred to the Comprehensive Academic Management System. The software, known as CAMS, was purchased in 2002 for about $225,000.

“It’s a desire the campus has,” said Steve Earney, assistant vice president of information services.

The software is Web based and will allow students to enroll, apply for degree audits, have links to Blackboard and offer students all of LION Link’s options as well.

“Virtually everything that touches students will be available for students to use with this software,” Earney said.

More elaborate and technical software packages were available. Those, however, were in the $1 million price bracket.

“We had other bids, but CAMS was the only one we could afford,” Earney said.

Dr. John Messick, dean for the school of arts and sciences, said he’s excited about the software.

“I’m looking forward to using it,” Messick said.

With CAMS, students will be able to retrieve their DARS online instead of it taking 10-15 minutes and a visit to the registrar’s office. Students will also be able to pay fines with CAMS.

Faculty will have easier access to student records and information as well. Messick described the current process as “cumbersome.”

“Advisers and department heads will be able to retrieve information very efficiently now,” Messick said.

Although the transfer of information takes a great deal of time and patience, Earney said one of the biggest challenges will be training the campus community to use the software.

“All of the offices have to coordinate and come together,” Earney said. “Everyone has to be at the same point.”

Although it’s taking a while for the software to unveil itself, Earney said it could be a more complicated process than it is.

Erney said the University of Missouri is undergoing a similar transfer of all its data to a new software management system.

The project, however, involves four campuses and millions of dollars.

Messick said one of the biggest advantages of using CAMS will be convenience for everyone on campus.

“This will make the whole campus much more up to date and a lot easier,” he said.