Query library shows promise

More than 100 users of UW–Madison’s InfoAccess data warehouse recently viewed a new Query Library Web site containing pre-written queries and subsequent reports utilizing data warehouse student information extracted from the university’s Integrated Student Information System.

A second Query Library presentation for current InfoAccess student data users will be 2:30 -4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, 1610 Engineering.

Provost John Wiley calls the Query Library “the first stage in a long-term commitment to making the use of data more effective on campus. … It’s a powerful way to get information in a timely and cost-effective manner.”

“This is going to meet lots of reporting needs that have not yet been met,” agrees Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Paul Barrows. “On behalf of the ISIS Project, I would like to thank all of those who worked so diligently on this very important and timely effort.”

Kathy Luker of the Office of Quality Improvement chairs a committee spearheading this effort. Others on the committee are Scott Manley and Kay Steiner of DoIT, Harriet Allen, political science, Bruce Beck, budget planning and analysis, Gesele Durham, Graduate School, Gery Essenmacher, chemistry, and Sharon Nellis, Nursing. There are also subcommittees for undergraduate admission, student administrative processes, and course enrollment management.

“What we need now is for the users of the data warehouse to take advantage of the queries already supplied and give us critical feedback so we can determine what’s needed next and develop a timeline for production in preparation for general campus use,” Luker says.

The “work-in-progress” Query Library site access is currently limited to those users of the InfoAccess service authorized to use student administration data.

In addition, links off the main site provide full student information documentation as well as specific technical help for browser configuration and using the appropriate application program (i.e. BrioQuery Explorer or Microsoft Access).