Getting Started With Project Approvals

Overview

Marist evaluates new IT projects on a yearly basis. Projects are requested by December 1 and are considered for implementation in the following fiscal year.

Phase One - Interdepartmental/School Initiation

The Identification phase marks the beginning of the project life cycle. It involves the development of a business case and proposal, typically initiated when a department, team, or individual recognizes a need, demand, or opportunity that warrants a project.

During this phase, a project sponsor requests or receives a preliminary business case outlining the project's purpose and justification, estimated costs, projected time line, and any major associated risks. The sponsor then evaluates this information to determine whether the initiative should proceed and be submitted to IT for further review.

An IT project is defined as any initiative that requires IT resources for implementation. This may include components such as single sign-on functionality, data integration with the ERP system (e.g., Banner), or connectivity with existing university platforms like Brightspace, Marist.edu, and other institutional systems.

Phase Two - Submission and Review

Phase Two involves a comprehensive review by the Information Technology (IT) team to assess the feasibility of the proposed project. The IT team is responsible for evaluating the request to determine its technical viability. This review encompasses an analysis of the proposed product or change, potential security risks, required resources, estimated costs, and other relevant implementation considerations whether the solution involves new software, hardware, or both.

The IT review process may take up to two weeks to complete. During this period, the requester may be contacted with questions or concerns from the review team. Additionally, IT may request a meeting with the vendor to gain further insight. This phase includes both an executive-level evaluation and a cybersecurity risk assessment. Upon completion, IT approval signifies that the project’s business case is sound and ready to advance to the University Executive Team for final consideration.

Executive Review and Fiscal Year Planning

All project requests for the upcoming fiscal year are provisionally resourced, scheduled, and presented to the University Executive Team. This team evaluates each proposal based on financial investment, resource availability, and strategic value to the institution. Approval from the University Executive Team confirms that the project aligns with institutional priorities and is authorized to proceed in the next fiscal year.

Availability

Project request may be submitted by Marist staff and faculty.

Support 

The Project Management Office guides the approval process throughout its life cycle.

Additional Information

Submitting an IT Project Request