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This policy applies to the implementation considerations and system configuration required for exchanging user fine/fee data with a campus bursar system.
Two Possible Models
I. CashNet Portal
Requirements: Pay User Fines / Fees API, Export User Blocks, Analytics API
Through a CashNet portal, a payment type is set up through a campus' existing CashNet system, enabling users to login, view their balance of library fines, and make payments. An analytics report is scheduled to run once daily to generate all users with fines and fees. The information from the Analytics report is manipulated through a script for import into CashNet. The user pays the fines and fees through CashNet, and upon payment completion, information about the payment is generated and sent back to a script for import into Alma using the Pay User Fines / Fees API. The fine is then logged as paid in Alma.
With this option, the only interaction with PeopleSoft would involve placing blocks / holds on the user's PeopleSoft record (for example, if the library places holds on student's registration for unpaid library fees). Using the Export User Blocks integration with Alma, patrons with blocks such as registration holds can be exported and prepared for ingest to PeopleSoft. We are still investigating removal of blocks, which may remain manual.
Additional Information Needed:
II. PeopleSoft Integration (San Marcos Approach)
San Marcos is developing a solution that focuses on communication between Alma and PeopleSoft. In this model, fines and fees data are generated through the Analytics API, as with the CashNet portal, and prepared for ingest into PeopleSoft. San Marcos Campus IT is working on a script that checks user accounts periodically throughout the day to check to see if payments have been made. If a payment is made, that information is sent back to Alma through the Pay User Fines / Fees API.
III. Ex Libris Designed Solution
Christian Ward noted that Ex Libris has created a fines / fees payment integration with a vendor through the UK, who only accepts payments in pounds (see Administration > General Configuration > Integration Profiles > Payment). It was suggested that we press Ex Libris to develop a solution using CashNet directly, as many universities in the US use this vendor, and it would be benefit to a number of institutions.
Implementation Considerations
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