[sims] SIMS Data After Migration

[CHiLL]

We have moved to Bromcom but are still using FMS for finance until April next year, so won't be fully retiring the SIMS server. When we moved from CMIS to SIMS many years ago, there were quite a few data types that SIMS coudn't import, so we resorted to keeping an offline copy of CMIS (in line with our data retention policy). This was to answer any queries from leavers or other requests (which we had a fair few of).

 

My question is: Has anyone who has moved from SIMS to Bromcom found any data types that weren't imported across? If so, how are you dealing with that data from SIMS?

 

Due to the way ESS have been awkward with contracts, our idea was to create an offline instance of the SIMS server from the last backup, after the GCSE results have been entered. That way, SOLUS won't be able to talk to the Internet and cause issues if they push patches to block access for those with expired contracts.

 

Is this a viable option, or is it not necessary (if all data is moved across for example)?

[simpsonj]

We're keeping an archive of our SIMS server. The predominant reason is for any documents that have been attached to students as they don't carry over. I'll guess we'll find out what else is missing as we go along!

[CHiLL]

We're keeping an archive of our SIMS server. The predominant reason is for any documents that have been attached to students as they don't carry over. I'll guess we'll find out what else is missing as we go along!

Ah, at least I'm not alone then! For attached documents; Salamander can import them from SIMS to Bromcom, we used them for ours. If you already have Salamander, it's included in the cost. If not, there is a fee. IIRC, you use their tool to export the documents from SIMS with admission numbers, then they can be imported into Bromcom and link to the same students via admission number.

[simpsonj]

I think an awful lot of our linked documents are legacy, so in an attempt to keep Bromcom 'fresh' I've not been asked to do that (yet!).

[supportman]

Yes bad idea to import documents, just bloats the new system.

 

We just keep the old Sims virtual machine turned off. But ready to use if ever needed.