What is Banner and Why Do We Need It?
UTHSC Banner implementation began in Oct 2008, with an anticipated completion date of July 2010. As of August 2009 we are approximately
40%complete. For more information, see the detailed timeline.
Welcome to the UT Health Science Center Banner Home Page,
It’s my pleasure to serve as the project director for the Banner implementation at UTHSC. In this role, I recognize the importance of listening to the questions and concerns of team members who are about to participate in a significant change in the way the entire UT system manages student information.
Change isn’t easy, especially since over the years many team members involved in student services have developed innovative ways to pull required information out of outdated systems. Once Banner is implemented the "work-arounds" that were devised out of necessity, won't be viable anymore. What will be available is a powerful, state-of-the-art student information system with the ability to rapidly update information as well as provide tremendous amounts of important institutional data and reports.
What we will need from each of you -- who will be trained to maximize your particular use of the Banner system -- is patience, an open attitude and a willingness to embrace this important change. There are bound to be bumps in the road as we all move forward on the Banner learning curve, but I can assure you the benefits of the Banner system will far outweigh the discomfort of adapting to change.
An unknown source is quoted as saying, "You can't expect to meet the challenges of today with yesterday's tools and expect to be in business tomorrow." In sync with that sentiment, President John F. Kennedy said, "Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future."
Banner is a proven, advanced, sound information system that will be updated and kept current as technology and applications change. We hope you will approach this change knowing that the UT system investment in Banner is truly an investment in the FUTURE for all of us.
Matt Sanchez
Project Director
Banner at a Glance
What is Banner?
Banner is an integrated student information system that will replace multiple, antiquated student information systems with a single powerful, advanced student information system. The Banner system will be used on all UT campuses. This connected system will ensure that information flows smoothly from one office to another. Previously, campus offices, such as the Bursar, Admissions, Registrar and Academic Affairs, each maintained their information independently, creating virtual silos. Banner will change this. The new system will provide dedicated staff with the tools to maintain student information and will ensure that those who need access all have the most current data.
The benefit to students is that they will no longer have to go to each department separately, but instead will have access to student processes at one place and at their finger tips. For additional details, visit our Frequently Asked Questions.
Involved Departments
The main offices affected by Banner implementation include Admissions, Bursar’s Office, Registrar and Academic Affairs. In addition, the administration of each UTHSC college will also need to learn to properly access Banner and utilize its information managements and reporting capabilities.
Students will have some access to Banner to manage their data. Plus there will be other staff and/or faculty members who will need Banner access to fulfill certain work requirements.
