Recently CKC released a notice that CKC will be undergoing an IT System Outage October 11
th – November 4
th in preparation for the transition to our new IT system. Details about this outage can be reviewed
here and I appreciate the opportunity to address some of those questions and concerns raised since the notice. Please be assured that during this period, Registration Applications and Shows & Trials results will be received, sorted and prepared to be entered into our new system as quickly as possible, starting on or before November 4
th.
Retiring and transitioning our current IT system has been one of the most expansive projects CKC has undertaken since I joined as Executive Director more than 6 years ago. Over the past three years, this project has included research and consultation, an assessment of other Kennel Clubs’ systems, and planning to modernize our processes to support CKC’s unique business.
One of the most compelling reasons for this project was to mitigate the risks within our outdated and unstable systems. This risk became reality when the Member Portal for online Registration Applications became irreparable in July. This has had significant, negative impacts on the convenience and turnaround time for Registration Applications.
I want to assure you that staff have been working hard to try to keep pace with the backlog this created, working extended hours and sharing tasks to minimize the impact. In addition, the fee schedule for registration services for members will be temporarily reduced by 20% for dog and litter applications, and transfer of ownership applications not processed by October 11. This price reduction will remain in place until the backlog of applications returns to reasonable turnaround levels.
Perhaps, the most frequent question received has been related to the length of the system outage required to complete the transition. There are approximately 45 million integrated records spanning decades housed in our current IT systems. The system outage will support this transition and all the additional steps required to ensure our new system is fit for the future of CKC and our membership. Every staff member is now engaged in the project at a significant level, whether it be testing, training, or preparing in other ways. Several CKC members are also engaged in usability testing.
More notices and updates are scheduled over the coming weeks and months to make the transition as smooth as possible, and to support the release of additional features after the initial launch. We’ve developed this list of “
Frequently Asked Questions” to provide more information and help you manage your CKC business.
I am pleased that we are at a stage now where we can see a future for CKC with an IT system that is reliable, sustainable, and convenient. On behalf of all the staff, I cannot stress enough how much your patience and loyalty has been appreciated throughout this project.
Best Regards,
Lance Novak
