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A project to update the University’s timetabling systems and processes has received approval to continue to the next stage from the University Executive Board (UEB).

The Timetabling project will move the University from our existing teaching and exam timetabling systems and processes, which are no longer meeting the needs of the University, to a modern system and updated approach. 

Why do we need it?

The University’s current timetabling systems are outdated and require significant resources from both the DSE timetabling team and faculties, as well as relying heavily on support from ITS.

Current processes are inefficient, involving significant manual entry and duplicate work which is not sustainable.

Together, these difficulties result in a timetabling process that causes dissatisfaction and frustration among staff and students. 

What will be included?

The project will deliver an integrated timetabling solution, including: 

• an exam management system (Exam Scheduler)
• a teaching timetabling system
• a room booking system (Resource Booker), and 
• a new platform for students and staff to view the timetable (Publish). 

When will this happen?

The project is expected to be delivered in phases over the course of several years.

• February 2027: Our new exam management system (Exam Scheduler) will be available to the Exams and Assessment team for the scheduling of exams for the A2 assessment period (May 2027). 
• From March 2027: Students will view A2 exams (scheduled for May 2027) via the new timetable publisher (Publish). The teaching timetable will remain in Sussex Direct. We will be supporting everyone with clear communications around this in-year change. 
• November 2027: Our new teaching timetabling components will be available for the DSE Timetabling Team to begin building the 2028/29 academic year timetable.
• July 2028: Faculties will access the timetable via Publish and follow amended processes for the Review Period.
• From August 2028: Teaching and exam timetables will be fully created and delivered through the new systems, with the 28-29 teaching timetable available to staff and students via publish.
• In 2028 our new room booking service (Resource Booker, replacing ORBS), which will allow colleagues to book general teaching spaces, will also go live.

Project leadership

The project will now be led by Marie Gallagher as Senior Responsible Officer (SRO), who is replacing Jo Corbett in the role.

Find out more

You can learn more about the project on our project webpages.

Alternatively, you can contact the project team directly