Published on December 12, 2024

Advancement CRM: What’s New and Next

Dear Advancement Colleagues,

As we wrap up 2024 and embark on the final year of both the Honor the Future Campaign and the Advancement CRM Transformation Project, I am writing on behalf of the University Advancement Technology Steering Committee (UATSC) to provide updates and to share what we have planned for Winter Week of Learning:

1. Pause on Developing New Reports and Tools 

Recognizing that our shift to the new Advancement CRM is happening once the campaign ends, the UATSC has agreed to a moratorium on new report development and enhancements in our current toolset (Advance, Cognos, Tableau, EverTrue, etc.). You will continue to utilize existing reports and tools and work with Prospect Management, Research & Analytics (PMRA) and Business Intelligence (BI) to find the most efficient way to get the information you need. Please be flexible with your expectations as University Advancement prioritizes future-oriented efforts as part of the CRM development. 

2. Hold on New Technology Purchases

The UATSC will be deferring the approval of new technologies and software. In this final phase of our tech ecosystem overhaul, it is critical that the community’s technology experts are able to focus on building, testing, and implementing Advancement CRM. We are confident that the results will enhance our business practices, user experience, data quality, and data security. We will continue to hold  on new tech requests throughout the six-month stabilization period after Go Live.

3. Week of Learning - Important CRM-Related Sessions

During the upcoming Winter Week of Learning, we’ll showcase Advancement CRM capabilities and help prepare our teams for the post-campaign transition. With seven sessions planned, there are two you absolutely won’t want to miss!

  • Lessons Learned Luncheon: Join us on Thursday, January 16, with peers from institutions that have recently launched their new CRM systems. They will speak about how preparation and the right mindset can make the journey to CRM success rewarding. This session is eligible for 3 credits toward the Administrative Professionals Training certificate program.
     
  • BASECAMP Advancement CRM - Early Adopters Workshop: On Friday, January 17, secure your spot among the trailblazers. Engage in hands-on exploration and expert guidance with Advancement CRM. Bring your laptop for direct interaction with the system and get a sneak peek of the mobile app.

You can expect a more detailed update from the UATSC in April with a timeline for the CRM roll-out in FY26. Thank you for your attention to these updates and your continuous support. Happy holidays to you and yours, 

Julie Featherstone, On behalf of the University Advancement Technology Steering Committee (UATSC)