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CLSS Modes: Design vs Refine
CLSS uses two modes — Design Mode (Schedule Build) and Refine Mode (Ad Hoc Edits) — to manage how schedules are built and updated. While both modes use the same CLSS tools, they differ in where data is stored, who is involved in workflows and how updates are handled. The table below outlines what changes when a Scheduling Unit (SU) moves from Design Mode to Refine Mode in CLSS.
For details about the progression of each mode, see the CLSS Scheduling Phases.
| Scheduling Element | Design Mode (Schedule Build) | Refine Mode (Ad Hoc Edits) |
|---|---|---|
| Phase | One phase: Schedule Build | Multiple phases; may include Schedule Build phase depending on when the Scheduling Unit's schedule is pushed to Banner. |
| Where Section Data Lives | CLSS only | CLSS and Banner |
| Reporting Sources | CLSS only (not yet in Banner) | CLSS and Qlik (data synced with Banner) |
| Validation (error checking) | Entire schedule validated at once - use the Validate button. | Section-by-section validation as updates are saved; full schedule validation still available. |
| Workflow Triggers On | Full schedule at once | Per section |
| Approval Route |
SU Approver → UReg Scheduling → Banner SU Scheduler & School Approver receive notification once workflow complete. |
Usually UReg Scheduling → Banner, but may vary by update type. For example, lowering enrollment on a COLL 150 may require a School Approver → UReg → Banner workflow |
| PATH Visibility | Not visible to students; occurs before term is published. | Visible to students. Once workflow completes (if applicable), section updates typically appear to students by the end of the day. |
| CLSS Access Limitations | Only one user can work on the schedule at a time per SU. | Only one user can edit a section at a time, but other sections in the same SU can be updated simultaneously. |
| Banner Catalog Updates | Nightly | Nightly |
| CRN Assignment for New Sections | Not yet assigned (display as "NEW"). CRNs created when schedule is pushed to Banner at end of Design Mode (Schedule Build). | CRNs already assigned. New sections receive CRNs as they are added and approved. |