Electronic Billing a Success!

Robert L Francis jr
Staff Writer

IU South Bend made the switch to electronic billing in July of 2006. Indiana University first began a plan to upgrade the information systems in 1999 using a system called PeopleSoft software. This software made its way to IUSB in the form of OneStart.

When OneStart debuted, it was greeted with the usual amount of skepticism and trepidation of something new. Initially it had its share of problems but those problems were addressed and apparently all the bugs have been worked out.But do the staff and students like it better? It works, but is it really efficient?     

“It has worked like I expected it would. There is a learning curve for the students,” Said Linda Lucas, the Bursar. “For the most part the students are catching on quickly. Some love it, some don’t, and nothing satisfies everyone.”Andrea Welch, manager of the “Gateway to Excellence” has not had any complaints about the system. She does feel that “it’s convenient that it is online though.”

The convenience of E-billing is also a big hit with parents. Beverly A. Cooper of Financial Aid said “Parents really like the idea.”       

Students also agree that the system is efficient and convenient. Megan Bolenbaugh, student said “It’s very convenient to pay my bills anywhere I have Internet access. I love it! Bolenbaugh hopes that more students take advantage of the system. “It is unfortunate that not all students are aware of it. Some people choose not to use it.”