Final phase of UFIRST implementation slated for July 5 go-live

final phaseIn an effort to significantly improve the way it administers research, the Office of Research introduced the University of Florida Integrated Research Support Tool—or UFIRST—in the spring of 2015. On July 5, the final phase of the UFIRST implementation will be complete when the awards module of the system is launched.

This final phase of the UFIRST implementation reflects an increased synergy and partnership between the Division of Sponsored Programs and the Contracts and Grants Office, both of which are now housed together under the Office of Research.

While the requirements for departments to provide essential data about new awards and modifications are the same, research administrators will now enter this information directly into UFIRST rather than emailing this information to DSP Awards.

A new “Viewer” role will also be introduced that will provide increased transparency and ease of access to information. The new common workspace will ensure more accurate record-keeping and the elimination of the need to rekey information in the myUFL system, with the expectation of a reduction in discrepancies.

Please note that, for all new awards set up after July 5, the current Award Compliance Form will be available via UFIRST.  Principal investigators will be required to log into UFIRST to complete this form.  In addition, the Conflict of Interest portion of this form is moving into UFIRST.  All key personnel on each award must certify their outside activities related to each award in UFIRST.

Some key upcoming dates to keep in mind:

  • June 1: RSH282 UFIRST Awards course available. Register now!
  • June 30: One-day system down-time
  • July 5: Go-live

Watch for further details in the June issue of the InfoGator.  If you have questions or concerns, please email ufirst@research.ufl.edu.