#Japan #Osaka #Microsoft 365 #Media Fusion #Researchmap

Introduction

Media Fusion Co., Ltd., headquartered in Osaka, has announced the initiation of development for a new version of its MF Academic Performance Management System, which will now be compatible with Microsoft 365. This latest enhancement aims to facilitate serverless operation, a transition that reflects the needs of large universities and research institutions. The upgraded system will allow researchers to register their achievements directly into university systems that run on Microsoft 365, with seamless data integration into researchmap. With a goal set for a rollout by 2026, the project promises significant reductions in operational costs while providing enhanced system integration functionality.

Development Background

The company previously launched a Microsoft 365-compatible version of their MF Academic Performance Management System Light Package, primarily utilizing researchmap as its main database. This new initiative stems from an evident need within universities and research institutions for a more structured management of academic performance data, especially among those with a large number of faculty and researchers.

The new system will empower these institutions to independently manage performance data without being restricted to researchmap's data structure. By transitioning from an on-premises system to a cloud-based model, Media Fusion is addressing the evolving demands of digital transformation (DX) in the academic sector.

Key Features of the Microsoft 365 Compatible Version

1. Enhanced Integration with Microsoft 365

The MF Academic Performance Management System will now operate both on-premises and within Microsoft 365, preserving the core advantage of institutional management. This new architecture is designed to optimize operations in a cloud setting, maintaining the robust customization options available in the on-premises version.

2. University-Centric Performance Management

Unlike the Light Package, which is researchmap-centric, this new system prioritizes institutional management of achievement data. Universities will have the flexibility to configure their databases independently, leveraging researchmap mainly for data sharing and visibility.

3. Cost Reduction via Serverless Operations

By utilizing Microsoft 365, institutions can eliminate traditional server-related burdens, including procurement, updates, and security maintenance. This significant change is projected to yield substantial operational cost savings, enabling institutions already using Microsoft 365 to transition smoothly.

4. Versatile System Expansion and Integration

The use of Microsoft 365 allows for the integration of various tools including SharePoint, Excel Online, Power Automate, Power Apps, and Power BI. Notably, the input screens can be automatically generated using the company's innovative Power Apps auto-screen generation tool, allowing for quick modifications without needing extensive programming knowledge.

5. Focus on Large Institutions

This academic performance management system is specifically designed with large universities and research institutions in mind. It builds upon years of expertise gained from the on-premises standard pack, ensuring compatibility with large-scale environments while minimizing additional Microsoft 365 licensing costs.

Conclusion

This new system exemplifies Media Fusion's vision of SEaaS (SaaS Extension as a Service), aimed at building robust systems on integrated platform SaaS, like Microsoft 365. By addressing significant challenges associated with traditional on-premises and legacy SaaS solutions, this development marks a crucial step towards advancing digital transformation in academia.

About Media Fusion

Founded in 1995, Media Fusion is dedicated to supporting the digital transformation of corporate, educational, and public institutions through its innovative solutions and development on Microsoft 365. With offices in Osaka, Tokyo, and Hanoi, the company is positioned to offer expert guidance and cutting-edge technology to its clients worldwide.

For more information about this new system or to schedule a consultation, please visit Media Fusion's official website.