Own Software Writers Group
This group consists of staff who work with in-house MI systems for their employers.
Meeting outputs
The group received the following updates on the following at the meeting on 20 January:
- Connexions - at its December 09 meeting, the information authority board agreed the specification and collections dates, subject to legal checks to ensure that the data requested is not excessive and that fair process notices and appropriate data sharing protocols are in place. A communication plan for Connexions services will be developed with the DCSF and the Connexions Service Steering Group in February 2010. As it has been suggested that the Data Service would be ideally placed for Connexions data collections, this will be further explored.
- Electronic records project - the pilot is due to completed in March 2010. The LSC will not be producing a single specification, and will be producing a draft electronic control risk assessment to judge provider readiness for the project. This will be in line with BSI10008. The LSC has asked that interested providers get involved in the project.
- Learning Aims Database (LAD) - the Data Service informed the group that there is a planned redevelopment of the LAD, and asked attendees to provide a 'wish list', which will be balanced against cost and other criteria.
- Learner Information Suite (LIS) - the Data Service asked attendees for feedback on the 2009/10 release.
- Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) - this project is linked to the LAD development and the attendees expressed their concerns that the changes mean creating a number of aims per learner. There was some uncertainty around arrangements for Learners with Learning Difficulties and/or Disabilities - a representative from the YPLA will be invited to the next meeting to provide clarity. The LSC asked for provider involvement in the process to ensure all issues are address as early as possible. A policy update is available for providers to view.
- Data Authentication project - the LSC is addressing concerns regarding privacy by introducing a two-factor authentication process for its staff. It is also assessing whether to extend this process to training providers. Attendees were asked for comments, and raised general concerns about LSC systems and the additional burden on providers. Anybody interested in the project should contact David.Browne@PAConsulting.com.
- Consultation on the Proposed Employer Contribution Collection - attendees were asked to comment on this proposal via feconnect.
The group raised their concerns regarding the following:
- Speed of the EMA Online interface and payment system
- Provider Gateway, which in unreliable and crashes
- Inability to feed into key initiatives and systems development on projects such as the Single Account Management System
Date of next meeting
14 October 2010
Meeting papers
21 October 2009
Own Software Writers Group - Minutes - 21 October 2009 (140Kb)
20 January 2010
Own Software Writers Group - Agenda - 20 January 2010 (107Kb)
Own Software Writers Group - Action Log - 20 January 2010 (190Kb)
Presentation - Data Authentication (133Kb)
Presentation - QCF Funding, Planning and Performance (460Kb)
Interested in joining the group?
Please send an e-mail to cst@theia.org.uk if you are interested in joining the group.
