Connect Implementation Process

CONNECT Implementation Process

• Week 0 — Mission Start Phase (Data Intake & Alignment)

• Week 1–2 — Automation Setup Phase (System Configuration)

• Week 2–3 — Access Configuration Phase (User Setup)

• Week 3–4 — Validation Phase (Data Review & QA)

• Week 4–5 — Alignment Phase (Training & Readiness)

• Week 5–6 — Launch & Liftoff Phase

Optional Features

Ongoing Support

How CONNECT Works

CONNECT uses data from your systems to build messaging groups automatically.

• Student and staff data comes from your SIS (and optionally HR system)
• This data is uploaded regularly (typically nightly)
• CONNECT uses this data to send messages to the correct recipients

This ensures your contact lists stay accurate and up to date without manual maintenance

CONNECT Implementation Process

Week 0 — Mission Start Phase (Data Intake & Alignment)

To begin setup, your district will provide data from your SIS.

Most districts will:

• Export data as CSV files
• Upload files to a secure SFTP location provided by CatapultCMS

Required files typically include:

• Student data
• Staff data
• Student to staff relationships (class/roster data)

These files allow CONNECT to correctly match students, staff, and contacts for messaging

Alternative integrations may be available, including:

• Aeries API
• ClassLink (OneRoster)

Week 1–2 — Automation Setup Phase (System Configuration)

For best results, data should be updated automatically.

• Most districts configure nightly uploads
• This keeps student, staff, and contact information current
• Our team will assist with setup and validation

Week 2–3 — Access Configuration Phase (User Setup)

CONNECT supports multiple login options:

• Google
• Microsoft
• Active Directory
• Standard username and password

Single Sign-On (SSO) allows staff to log in using their existing credentials

Week 3–4 — Validation Phase (Data Review & QA)

Once your data is connected:

• Our team reviews your files for accuracy
• We work with you to resolve any issues
• Site structure (schools) is confirmed
• Staff, students, and contacts are verified

This step ensures everything is working correctly before launch.

Week 4–5 — Alignment Phase (Training & Readiness)

Before going live, we will schedule a Data Check meeting with your team.

During this meeting, we will:

• Review staff and student data
• Confirm class rosters and relationships
• Verify contact information
• Test login access
• Answer any questions

This is the final step before launch.

Week 5–6 — Launch & Liftoff Phase

Once your data is approved:

• CONNECT is ready for use
• Staff can begin sending messages
• Data will continue updating automatically

Optional Features

Depending on your setup, you may also use:

Attendance Alerts

• Automatically notify families of absences
• Requires additional attendance data setup

Other Alerts

• Additional features can be configured based on your district’s needs

Ongoing Support

Our team is here to help after launch.

• Submit support requests through our ticketing system.
• We assist with updates, troubleshooting, and improvements

Tips for Success

• Ensure your SIS data is accurate and complete
• Automate uploads whenever possible
• Test messaging with a small group before full rollout

What CatapultCMS Handles

• Secure data setup and configuration
• File validation and troubleshooting
• System configuration and testing
• Guidance throughout onboarding