Roles of People Using Prime

Running a database in an office requires people with three different roles, a Database Administrator, an Application’s Administrator and Users. Although the roles of the Database Administrator and Application Administrator are sometimes performed by the same person, they often are two separate people. A more complete discussion of the tasks of these people occurs at the end of this document.

a) The Database Administrator

This person insures that the hardware and software are running correctly. They are in charge of system upkeep, maintenance, and backup. They set up a system to distribute changes to all users. The technical aspects of running the program, such as the correct setup of the servers, are their responsibility. Their focus is on how well Prime is running, not how it is used. They concentrate on the computer hardware and the correct installation of the software. If your program uses Prime Cloud, you do not need a Database Administrator, since these duties are handled by Venture Technologies.

b) The Application Administrator

The Application Administrator is concerned with how Prime is used. They insure that the data is being put in correctly, needed reports are run, and the software is being used to its fullest. They train new users and help staff with basic questions. They are responsible for either making policy decisions or communicating the need for changes to the person(s) who make the decisions (e.g., should a particular form letter be modified or should a new funding code be added). Application’s Administrators can also make corrections and modifications to the program. If the system is hosted, this person may be designated as the “contact” person for Venture if there is a need to contact them for any maintenance or performance issues.

Sometimes one person carries out both of these responsibilities. If one person performs both of these roles, you should designate a backup person to fill in if this person goes on vacation, sick leave, or quits the program.

c) Users

These are the rest of the staff in the office who depend upon Prime on a daily basis to get their work done. Their responsibility is to insure the information they put into Prime is both accurate and complete.