I love conversations such as this. Deep into my world. Ok, so here is the story:
Way back in the day when UER's were one of the primary "records of service", there was only one electronic database which held all the information (and not very reliably). In 1994, DND bought into HRMS v6.0 which was probably better suited for Windows 3.11, and only so many people in an Orderly Room had access. The benefit, it was actual proper, customizable (ranks, deployment data, etc) desktop software that met National Defence's HR data management priorities, however it still did not meet DND's organizational HR planning requirements.
In 1998ish I believe it was (correct me if I'm wrong), enter HRMS v7.5, a version which allowed all HR personnel access, and allowed for a barrage of different data types and HR planning functions, as well as allowing for the civilian and reserve force access in order to manage their data (approx 2002), we have since migrated this software all the way to v7.58 but there is still a massive problem, the Government of Canada is completely operating on v9.1.
Sooo...the civilian workforce was mandated to be moved over to v9.1 (aka the web based one). Problem being is that the military as a whole has to get connected and the sort. The bigger problem being that the web based version requires a complete and EXACT organizational picture or it will be a pile of garbage. What I mean by that is that lets say in the current system, I am in position 13361 (random...really...lol) my supervisor is in position 13360 but because of old org management and the way things used to be, I says I actually work for position 12445...so whoever that dude is, in v9.1 would be able to see all of my "supervisor level" HR data, that he really has no reason to see.
I'm certain that you can all appreciate that the reorganization of 68,986 positions is not an overnight task.
As well, bigger bonus, the payroll management system is also integrated into HRMS v9.1...(enter v9.7 stage left). Yes, so that does mean that with the new system, when you are promoted or posted, things like pay rate or tax rate changes are automated.
So yes, the introduction of the new HRMS will certainly mean the death of MM and CFTPO, etc...but having taken the training for the new software (which is available on the DHRIM website by the way...it's called HRMS UPK, not coach anymore), here is a glimpse of some new features, and ones that I heave already heard from "the mill":
Access for all CF members (position identifies your access)
Common user ID that doesn't change everytime you move or change jobs
Improved organizational planning
Integrated payroll management
Integrated operations management
Self-service functionality (explained below)
Manager self-service (leave requests, data changes)
Web based so no desktop software to install or slow down
Advanced reporting capability
Chain of command reports (parade state, bulk MPRR, etc.)
Integrated training management (for school specific data)
Career Management Functionality (increased member input)
Etc...there are other rumored integrations, but the ones above are ones I have heard from reliable sources...in my own trade, so its a pretty sure thing.
Now, self service...it sounds great, BUT...it is "supervised" self-service. As in let's say Cpl Bloggins changes his PEN form in the new system. That's great, but it is then transferred to an electronic "worklist", where Cpl Clerk checks it for accuracy and makes sure there is nothing wrong, then themes pen form is processed.
Either way, from all accounts, my fellow RMS clerks are still going to have a headache on our hands, but with time and patience, this software looks very very promising, and will serve the forces well for a long long time to come.
And by the way, monitor MASS has to be the most useful and innovative software that as an RMS clerk, I have seen in my career. But it, like everything else is a stepping stone towards a better way. Integration of all of the DND home grown software into one massive HR management system is the best way to go. Then data corruption becomes less of a problem.
Cheers!