Beginning today, ORPA will implement an automatic prior approval and rebudgeting process to replace the current paper OPAR process. Your department will now be able to submit electronic requests through Coeus for prior approval and rebudget of funds on awards. A notification of approval will be sent to the principal investigator and initiator of the request to confirm the change has been made.

The new feature is very easy to use, as described in the instructions. The process will largely mimic what is currently being done on department spreadsheets and Word documents. One advantage to the Coeus System is that it will track the budget changes in one place throughout the life of the award. ORPA has been using the new rebudget system for the last several months. We find this system to be an overall improvement and I am confident you will too.

Use of the system will be voluntary for the next few months but will be required for all rebudget requests effective December 1, 2004. The department grant manager in your unit has been given the proper access for this function. Please contact your ORPA administrator if you wish to allow others in your unit to create and submit prior approval requests to ORPA.

ORPA is hosting a user group session August 12th demonstrating this and other features including queries, subcontracts and award lookup.

Thank you for your cooperation.