Publication Date: March 2002
Bulletin ID: DLB-02-07
Summary: Revised Common Origination and Disbursement (COD) Implementation Date
March 2002
DLB-02-07
Subject: Revised Common Origination and Disbursement (COD) Implementation Date
Dear Partner:
The Common Origination and Disbursement system (COD) is the new financial aid delivery system for Pell Grants and Direct Loans. COD replaces the Recipient Financial Management System (RFMS) and the Direct Loan Origination System (DLOS) beginning in Award Year 2002-03. This message contains information about the revised system release schedule for the COD system.
We are extending the FSA system acceptance testing period for COD in order to ensure full production readiness and capability when we implement. We are confident that the COD system satisfies functional requirements and is very close to being ready for production. We have successfully processed common records and legacy records, printed promissory notes, sent files to FSA's accounting and servicing systems, and created reports. However, we feel extended time is necessary to ensure complete functionality, and for performance and volume testing. This extended testing will delay COD implementation from April 1 to the beginning of May 2002.
Software for both EDExpress and various vendors has been or will be tested with COD, and is in the process of being released. We ask, however, that no school send production files to the COD mailbox until COD is ready to process them.
This extended time also provides additional opportunities for school testing. Software vendors and schools will have more time to test their ability to send, receive, and process batches of records to COD. You will receive more detailed information about school testing shortly.
If you have any questions about COD before April 29, 2002, you can contact the Customer Service Call Center at (800) 433-7327, or send your questions via the Schools Portal. Staff is available Monday through Friday, 9-5 Eastern Time.
We know this is a busy time for you as you work to implement the 2002-2003 year. We apologize for any inconvenience this delay causes you.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership in the Direct Loan Program.
Sincerely,
Jane Holman
Acting Director, Title IV Delivery Schools Channel