UNM policies to be integrated into central location

The University of New Mexico will soon integrate several of the institution's various policy manuals into a single cloud-based portal, streamlining the search process by providing one central, easy-to-navigate location.

The policies scheduled to be integrated by April 10, include the Regents' Policy Manual (RPM), University Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual (UAPPM), and Health Sciences Center Academic, Administrative and Research, UNM Hospital, UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center, and UNM Medical Group policies.

According to UNM Policy Officer Sidney Mason-Coon, UNM's move to PolicyStat, a cloud-based platform, served as the catalyst for the integration by enabling a more streamlined and user-friendly policy experience. Previously, users had to search multiple locations to find policy information; the new system consolidates that process, where the integrated policy portal is accessible from both the UNM Policy Office website and the Health Sciences Center Policy Office website.

The UNM Policy Office changes align with the UNM 2040 Strategic Framework, the institution's 20-year aspirational vision. In particular, they support Goal 5: One University, which focuses on aligning and integrating UNM's academic, research, patient care, and service components while strengthening administrative functions across the institution.

"In the spirit of One University, we are moving several of UNM's policy manuals into one location for ease of use across our various constituents," said Mason-Coon. "PolicyStat was designed with users in mind, and that gives us the opportunity to integrate multiple policy manuals into a single location. Faculty, staff, and students will continue to sign in, when required, using the same login credentials they use now. The sole purpose of this integration is to enhance the overall user experience," Mason-Coon said.

The integration also advances Goal 3: Inclusive Excellence by improving ADA compatibility and mobile responsiveness. Accessibility is a cornerstone of the UNM Policy Office's mission, and PolicyStat complies with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2. These guidelines promote technology and digital content that is accessible to people with diverse hearing, mobility, vision, and cognitive abilities.

Enhanced accessibility features make it easier for all users-including those with disabilities-to find, navigate, and understand UNM policies. With updated federal accessibility standards set to take effect later this month, the integration represents an important step in the University's broader accessibility efforts.

"This integration is an important step in bringing our One University goal to life in a very practical way," said Mason-Coon. "When our policies are accessible in a single, shared space, it becomes easier for everyone-across all campuses and roles-to see how their work connects to the broader institution. I really believe this is about creating a more cohesive and navigable environment, where clear, consistent guidance supports collaboration and day-to-day decision-making. Ultimately, strengthening that shared foundation benefits the entire community and helps us operate more effectively as 'One University.'"

UNM rolled out PolicyStat last August as a user-friendly platform that includes intuitive search tools, ADA-compliant and mobile-responsive design, and the ability to share direct links to full policies or specific sections. Additional features include version control with redlines and archives, approval workflows, clear approval and revision dates, anonymous access options, Single Sign-On (SSO) access, and reporting tools for policy administrators.

According to HSC Policy Manger Gail Hammer, the operational strength of an organization is predicated on a systematic approach to policies and core processes.

"Having University-level policies; Regents and Administrative, available in the same location as Health Sciences documents, where they are easily accessible and aligned, on one policy platform, now guides our daily actions, increases compliance, and most importantly, advances UNM's operational excellence," said Hammer.

Hammer also extended her gratitude to the team responsible for the transition. "We are proud to have recently achieved this goal," she said. "I thank each policy representative for their teamwork and diligence as we established a 'One University' policy platform. Congratulations to all involved. Job well done!"

For questions about the policy integration, contact the UNM Policy Office at [email protected], or the HSC Policy Office at [email protected].

For more information, visit the UNM Policy Office website.