How a CRIS can drive improvements in information management

Abstract

This paper describes how the introduction of a CRIS (Current Research Information System) at the University of St Andrews and its use in UK research assessment has highlighted inefficiencies in information management and has led to a programme of improvement based on enterprise architecture principles and practices at the University. The conclusion from our experiences so far is that because the CRIS connects information from many areas of the University (Researchers, Human Resources, Student Records, Finance, Projects, Library, Knowledge Transfer) both culture and organisational structures are as important as technical infrastructure in ensuring the full benefits of a CRIS are realised.