Which systems are being linked?
Akari is being linked to the LSE website (Calendar), SITS (student records) and CMIS (course selection).
You can find an overview of the systems being integrated on the project webpage.
I've heard the project is facing challenges - what are they?
The integration of Akari with three systems - SITS (student records), CMIS (course selection), and the LSE Website - represents a significant step forward in modernising our curriculum management infrastructure. We have transitioned from legacy systems (CAPIS/REG), which were no longer supported or secure, to a more robust and up-to-date platform.
Each system has its own architecture, data model, and integration capabilities. Ensuring these link to each other accurately, smoothly and in line with the needs of all teams can lead to many types of challenges.
Akari is less customisable than CAPIS/REG, and while we have worked hard to replicate key functionality, this has not always been possible. In some cases, maintaining continuity has added complexity and extended timelines.
The integration has also required careful coordination across multiple systems and teams, and a high volume of issues have emerged during the process. In an already-complex environment, this has added further delay. As with any large-scale project the types of issues faced are various, but many have related to unanticipated dependencies, the need for workarounds in data mapping, and navigating the sheer scale and complexity of LSE’s curriculum data - particularly given the high level of student choice.
Despite these challenges, the project remains on track. This could not have happened without the strong support from you, and all colleagues across the School who manage curriculum information. The asks this year – especially in recent months – have been significant, and we recognise that this has at times been frustrating. We want to emphasise that this is a transition year; the work being done now is laying the foundation for a more streamlined, secure and data-informed approach going forward.
Is Course Finder being decommissioned?
Yes - in response to challenges which have arisen, we have unfortunately had to make the difficult decision that we can no longer support Course Finder. This decision was not taken lightly and follows consultation with representatives from across the School.
While Course Finder has been helpful in providing students with a more personal course planning experience, students are able to identify course choices through other means. It is also a legacy system which would require additional resource to maintain.
We understand this change may be disappointing and will affect staff, as well as continuing students, in practical ways. We know some of you have integrated references to it in course materials or student communications.
Further information will soon be shared as to practical next steps to take to support its decommissioning.
Will the publication of the Calendar be on time?
We currently expect the Calendar to be published on 28 August. While there is always a possibility of minor shifts due to unforeseen challenges, the project team is working hard to keep to the planned timeline.
Weekly updates are being shared with Academic Managers, the Edu-Leaders list, the PMA Forum and PhD Academy Managers. Any changes to timelines will be communicated promptly.
Will the start of the academic year be affected?
At this stage, we remain on track and do not expect any impact to the start of the academic year. The team is focused on maintaining this trajectory and is taking proactive steps to manage timelines and mitigate risks.
We will continue to share weekly updates with key groups, and will communicate any changes promptly and transparently, should they arise.
How will we know which data is "final"?
The data published in the Calendar will be the agreed final version for academic years up to and including 2025/26.
What happens if we spot an error after the Calendar has been published?
If you notice any issues after publication, please email tqaro@lse.ac.uk with a link to the relevant page(s) and a brief description of the issue. We’ll review and address it as quickly as possible.
Whilst TQARO will be able to make minor corrections to published information, this is not the case once course choice opens. After students start selecting their courses. more significant edits are not permitted, for example to assessment, availability or teaching, and departments will be asked to wait until after course selection closes to consult students and seek their agreement to more substantive changes. This is referred to as an ‘in-year’ change. As stated, please email tqaro@lse.ac.uk and the team will advise accordingly.
How will this impact what students and prospective students see online?
There may be some minor visual changes to Calendar pages, which you will be able to preview via webstaging links. Otherwise, the student experience of the Calendar will remain consistent.
Are students likely to be affected?
With the project on track, students should not experience any changes. The only exception to this is that continuing students will see the decommissioning of Course Finder.
A specific plan for the decommissioning of Course Finder is being developed and will be shared with departments before the end of July.
Any other potential impacts on students will be communicated as early as possible through the weekly updates.