Q: Is there any flexibility in the structure/categorization of the functional requirements in Technology Trailblazer awards? For example, a vendor may be very competitive in Proactive Advising and Onboarding, but not the counterparts Academic Maps and Informed Choice, respectively.
A: There is no flexibility in the Technology Trailblazer categories in 2018. The functional requirements were categorized in a manner that reflects common student lifecycle practices.
Q: If two vendors have a strong integration that can be demonstrated, would two vendors submitting a joint submission be considered to meet the functional requirements?
A: Joint submissions are acceptable and encouraged to involve best of breed vendors. The conversation and submission must clearly identify the vendors providing the software/functionality while the demonstration and written response reflect a tight, seemless integration.
Q: Will there be a limited number of awards offered?
A: There is no limit to the number of awards that will be offered.
Q: Even if the vendor considers themselves to have a longshot for an award, should they participate in the award process?
A: A primary purpose of the award program is to collaborate with vendors working in the student success and completion space. CCA welcomes vendors to participate and share research, efforts and technology. More vendors working in this area creates a better environment for students and institutions.
Q: Is it implied that if you don’t receive an award in the first submission period that other vendors were selected?
A: Although the award process is competitive, vendors are not competing against each other. Vendors are competing against the requirement list to win the award. Vendors may apply in either or both of the submission periods. For example, a vendor may complete the process in period 1 without winning and award and restart the process in period 2.
Q: Will the convening be in November or December again?
A: The Convening will be December 4-6, 2018 in Chicago, IL. Please check this page for details.
Q: What are the deadlines to submit letters of intent to participate?
A: Generally, letters of intent should be received within the first week of each period, April 6 and July 6 respectively. However, vendors planning to participate in submission period 2 are strongly encouraged to send the letter of intent prior to July 1 in order to effectively schedule the activities.
