Becoming familiar with the teaching and learning and system administration features/enhancements in the new release.
Becoming familiar with the upgrade paths/options for your existing Blackboard technology
Based on the upgrade approach and technology requirements of the new release, plan for the new configurations. Allocate hardware/software resources for the infrastructure.
Identify integrations currently in place with your existing Blackboard technology. Determine path for continuity when upgrading to new release.
Inventory 3rd party tools currently in use with your existing Bb technology. Determine if they have been updated for the new release.
Assess the impact of the upgrade on existing courses (content conversion)
Work on the strategy on course migration
Bb will submit a project plan to archive and restore course content, user information and usernames.
Archiving the current summer courses as recommended by Bb. Will test 250 courses, then 500 blocks of courses
Assess readiness of end-user support procedures and staff including the help desk, CETL and library help desk
Determine the delta in user knowledge between the existing Bb technology and the new release. Identify the your system and assess the level of change anticipated in the new release. Identify timing and training approaches/formats
Focusing on help desk and library
Develop a communication plan to build enthusiasm and manage change. Build a branding for the project. Create a fresh image.
Send on Tuesday or Thursday for summer and fall. Spring send out on Wednesday
Transfer all course content and student information to new system. Coordinate issues with faculty. Make corrections as necessary.
via the course maintenance page
Provide access by all stakeholders and conduct courses in new system
