[sims] Nova T6 - Changing Timetable Cycle

[Jenis]

Hello all, I'm starting timetabling for the first time (have previously only altered the timetable for staff/room/period changes etc.), and I've roughly set up my new timetable for next academic year.

 

However, we're moving from a 6 (7 including reg am) period day to a 12 period day plus a non-teaching reg (half an hour doubles). When I try to import the band structure into SIMS (I just want to get the kids into Options!), T6 kicks up a fuss about the different cycle structures:

 

"Supplied timetable shape (5x(12+1)) does not match timetable cycle definition. (5x(7+0))"

 

I've tried defining the period times in T6, but that hasn't worked. The only thing that has allowed me to continue with the submission is to change the timetable cycle back to how it is for this academic year.

 

How can I convince Nova that I'm starting a new academic year differently?

[vikpaw]

You can create and send back a new cycle from nova to SIMS

but be careful it's for next year and follow the instructions available in the manual.

Prob worth doing a search on SupportNet for any caveats.

[Linfit]

You need to export the timetable cycle from Nova to SIMS before you do anything else. Use the Data>Export Timetable Cycle to SQL. As you work through the wizard, double check everything and in particular you need to specify a start date for the cycle which corresponds with the start of your new academic year, and give the cycle a meaningful name.

Once this has been imported into SIMS, you can then do the bands.

[Jenis]

Ah, yes - just found that section in the back of the book! I did the Nova T6 course, but I can't remember that part being covered... (four days in, and me being the only data manager, I was keen for more - the deputy heads wanted to get back to their day jobs).

 

Thank you.