In The Weeds of a Complicated Instance: SIG Helps Augusta Optimize in Slate

Background

Augusta University partnered with SIG to support and optimize its highly complex Slate environment across multiple institutional functions.  

Working closely with Amy Smith, AVP of Enrollment Management, SIG provided a broad range of services including Slate implementation and optimization, business process analysis, transfer admissions consulting, Registrar support, Degree Works and Banner consulting, financial aid consulting, and long-term strategic roadmap guidance.  

The engagement focused on helping Augusta University streamline operations, improve efficiency, and maximize the long-term value of its enterprise-wide Slate environment. 

The Challenge

Augusta University manages a complex Slate environment supporting multiple areas across the institution, including undergraduate and graduate admissions, communications, and other campus-wide functions. Over time, the institution consolidated multiple Slate instances into a single enterprise-wide environment, creating additional complexity that required strategic oversight, technical expertise, and ongoing optimization. 

At the same time, various departments across the university were seeking ways to improve operational efficiency, reduce manual work, strengthen business processes, and better utilize existing systems. 

As the institution continued expanding its use of Slate and related technologies, Augusta University needed a trusted partner that understood not only the technology itself, but also the university’s unique processes, people, and long-term strategic goals. 

The SIG Approach

SIG has partnered with Augusta University since 2020, originally supporting the institution’s Slate implementation and continuing to expand services across multiple operational areas. 

Over the course of the engagement, SIG has supported: 

• Original Slate implementation and ongoing optimization 
• Institution-wide Slate consulting and roadmap planning
• Business Process Analysis (BPA) initiatives
• Transfer admissions process consulting 
• Migration of Augusta’s student success work from EAB Navigate to Slate
• Degree Works and Banner consulting support 
• Financial aid consulting services 
• Strategic advisory and operational guidance 

Because SIG has maintained a long-term relationship with Augusta University, the team developed a deep understanding of the institution’s systems, operational workflows, and internal stakeholders. 

According to Amy Smith, AVP Enrollment Management, SIG became Augusta University’s “preferred consulting partner” because the team understands both the technical environment and the operational realities behind the scenes. 

“They know our systems very well, our business processes, and it’s very easy to work with people that we have that established relationship with.” 

Managing a Highly Complex Slate Environment

While Augusta’s single Slate instance across the institution created opportunities for collaboration and efficiency, it also introduced significant operational complexity.  

SIG helped Augusta University navigate this complexity by providing both technical expertise and strategic guidance. 

“They have proven that they can get into the weeds of the complicated instance,” Smith said.  

The SIG team’s familiarity with Augusta’s environment enabled the institution to move faster, make more informed decisions, and confidently expand the platform’s capabilities across departments. 

Results and Impact

Through its ongoing partnership with SIG, Augusta University has continued evolving its systems and processes to better support institutional goals and operational efficiency. 

Key outcomes included: 

• Improved operational efficiency across admissions-related functions 
• Reduced reliance on manual processes 
• Expanded institutional utilization of Slate functionality 
• Stronger alignment between technical systems and business processes 
• Faster execution of strategic initiatives through trusted advisory support 
• Greater confidence in future roadmap planning and optimization efforts 

Smith noted that SIG’s deep institutional knowledge significantly improved collaboration and execution speed. “I feel like I can share all of my random ideas and needs, and they can figure out what’s in my brain and put it into something that makes sense.” 

As Augusta University continues expanding its use of Slate and related technologies, SIG remains a trusted strategic partner helping the institution optimize systems, improve processes, and support long-term operational success.