By July 1, the Office of Human Resources plans to launch a new campuswide software program to streamline and track the activities and conversations required by UW-Madison’s performance management policy. The Performance Management and Development Program uses performance management software that was originally developed by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Education for use within that area. The Office of Human Resources is making small modifications to provide the flexibility needed for the program to be of greatest use throughout campus. The performance management policy, which launched on July 1, 2015, applies to nearly all academic and university staff, and those who supervise them.

Four UW-Madison technology advisory groups have been formed to increase engagement on information technology decision making. The groups, and their charge, stem from the chancellor’s initiative to provide a framework for decision making related to IT priorities and to review the effectiveness of such investments. The groups focus input on technology to support four areas of work: teaching and learning, research, infrastructure, and the services that are also provided by the campus units and divisions. An overview of the structure and charge, as well as details about individual group progress, can be found at it.wisc.edu/it-community/governance/.

America Saves Week  — Feb. 27 to March 4 — is your opportunity to commit or recommit to saving for today and for your retirement. America Saves is a national campaign that encourages individuals and families to assess their savings and take financial action. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a partner in the America Saves campaign. Look at the UW’s America Saves website for in-person workshops and interactive webinars, videos, handy tips and information on saving and financial wellness. The easiest and most effective way to save is automatically, which can be done through the UW Tax-Sheltered Annuity 403(b) Program.

If you were a full-time employee (as defined by the Affordable Care Act) for all or some months of 2016, you will receive a Form 1095-C from UW System, probably by mid-February. Form 1095-C contains information about the UW System health coverage that was offered to you and whether you and your eligible dependents chose to participate. The information reported on Form 1095-C will allow the IRS to determine whether you (or UW System) may have to make a payment for failing to comply with the ACA.