Buff Experience Transformation Update

Key Decisions Made: Student Groups and Data Retention

In response to questions raised by advisors and working groups, the project executive leadership team has made two important decisions:

Student Groups 

The team has decided not to pursue custom development for student group visibility at this time. Instead, the system will maintain current practices using standard functionality. A comprehensive policy addressing data visibility, access, and governance for student groups will be developed for future phases.

Data Retention 

The project executive leadership team has confirmed that Education Cloud data will continue to be retained while a formal retention policy is developed. The team is now evaluating which historical Buff Portal Advising data should be migrated for active use and which should be archived for long-term reference and compliance needs.

This work provides direction for implementation planning while campus partners continue broader discussions around data governance and retention policy.

New Website Ready to Launch

The updated Buff Experience Transformation website is complete and undergoing final review before launch. The new site will provide:

• Clear information about the project and timeline
• Tutorial videos and training resources
• Role-specific guidance for different campus users
• Updates and announcements

The site will launch after review by the project executive leadership team.

Training Plan in Development  

A comprehensive training plan is being developed to prepare over 500 advisors and student success staff for the new system. The plan includes:

• Canvas-based training modules that can be completed at your own pace
• Hands-on practice opportunities with the new system
• Role-specific content tailored to what you do
• Scheduling and resource planning to ensure everyone can participate

The training proposal is being reviewed and detailed scheduling information will be shared as soon as it’s available. 

Data Cloud Integration Milestone Reached

The project received Data Steward approval for bringing Canvas data into Salesforce Data Cloud, enabling the next phase of technical implementation. This milestone supports the long-term vision of creating more connected and actionable student data while laying the groundwork for future analytics and engagement capabilities.

MVP Strategy Completes Its Work

MVP Strategy (Working Group 1) has held its final regular meeting and is transitioning to an ad-hoc structure. Working Group 1 will reconvene as needed for specific decisions, while larger strategic questions will be addressed by the Steering Committee.

This transition reflects the project's move toward completion of MVP work in the last half of phase 1. This transition will also result in new working group leadership being identified for phases beyond the initial rollout. 

Adoption Leads Continue Testing and Prioritization

Adoption Leads (Working Group 4) continues its essential work:

• Demo testing is underway, with experienced staff testing new features and providing feedback
• Prioritization survey results from nearly 70 responses were reviewed and weighted to ensure diverse perspectives across campus units
• Change management event is being planned for supervisors on August 11

This ongoing engagement ensures the system reflects real-world needs.

What's Coming in the Next Release

The team is finalizing which features will be included in the first release of Education Cloud. By mid-July, a clear picture of the "Phase 1 scope" will be presented to the project executive leadership team, showing what's included at launch and what's coming in future updates.

Budget Planning for Next Fiscal Year

Planning is underway for the FY27 budget, including consideration of potential costs for extending Buff Portal Advising licensing and the addition of new project roles to support ongoing system development and management.

Share Your Thoughts 

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. 

BuffET Feedback Interest Form