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What to Expect at Launch: A Focused First ReleaseÌý

The project team is finalizing the list of functionalities planned for the first release of Education Cloud. The approach is simple: launch with the essentials, then add more over time.

The initial rollout will include the core functionality advisors and student success staff need to support students day-to-day. Some advanced features and automations will come in future updates. This phased approach allows the campus to transition successfully while continuing to build and improve the system based on real-world use.

By mid-July, the team plans to share a clearer picture of what they anticipate will be included in the first release and what will likely come later. Your feedback is helping shape these decisions.

Policy Questions Being ResolvedÌý

Two important policy questions raised by advisors and working groups are being addressed at the project leadership level:

How should student group information be shared?Ìý

The team has identified a technical approach that maintains current practices while using standard system capabilities. This recommendation is being reviewed by campus leaders.

How long should advising notes be kept?Ìý

University policy doesn't provide specific guidance for advising records, so this question has been escalated to project’s executive leadership for both immediate and long-term direction.

Resolving these questions now ensures the system is built on sound policy foundations.ÌýÌý

Students Help Name the New SystemÌý

Students were asked what the new platform should be called. Their answer? Keep it simple and clear.

A short list of name recommendations has been forwarded to the project’s executive team for review and we expect to have a name for the new system soon.Ìý

System Build Continues Ìý

Development work is progressing through regular two-week build cycles (called "sprints"). The current sprint is wrapping up this week, and a demonstration of new features is scheduled for next week.

Adoption Leads—experienced advisors and staff from across campus—continue to test new functionality and provide feedback to ensure the system works for real-world scenarios.Ìý

What Happens to Buff Portal Advising? Ìý

The team is developing a detailed plan for transitioning from Buff Portal Advising, including how data will be preserved, how the cutover will happen, and what support will be available during the transition.

This planning work is essential to ensuring a smooth, well-supported change. Ìý

Training Resources Are in Development Ìý

Your feedback is actively shaping how we approach this transition. You will have multiple ways to learn and get help, and it will be provided over time, not just in a single training session. This will include:

• In-person training series
• Step-by-step written guides
• Short video tutorials
• Drop-in office hours
• Support from peer Adoption Leads

Share Your FeedbackÌý

Your input continues to shape this project. If you haven't already, please complete the BuffET Feedback Interest Form. Students who participate may be eligible for an Amazon gift card.Ìý