External Application Integration Requests and Review Process
This page describes how campus Digital Learning Environment (DLE) administrators can integrate third-party applications into the DLE and Canvas learning management system. All applications must be reviewed for security, privacy, and accessibility before they can be integrated.
What are External Applications and Integrations?
Integrated external applications can add new functionality to the DLE, including the Canvas learning management system. Common examples include textbook publishing platforms, proctoring services, and tools that search and embed database content.
These application integrations allow users to login to the application using their campus login and password so the application can exchange data with the DLE. External applications do not include links, content or other materials within the DLE that do not exchange credentials or data.
What is the Application Review Process?
Each external application has a unique configuration, but all integrated applications must comply with both federal regulations and Universities of Wisconsin policies. To ensure the security of the DLE, our application integration request process reviews and vets the tool before it is integrated with the DLE.
We developed the external application approval process to ensure a transparent, consistent, and efficient process. The time frame to complete a request depends upon the complexity of the integration and the level of risk that the integration introduces into the DLE. The request process is sequential and follows the stages outlined in the “Integration Request Process” graphic shown below.
Approval Process
Request: A Canvas administrator submits a request form that details relevant information about the external application.
Intake Review: UW System Administration collects and reviews the vendor's accessibility statements, privacy policy, and terms of use.
Functional Testing: UW System Administration works with the Canvas admin to install the tool in a test environment. Admin confirms the tool meets the needs of teaching and learning and that it functions as described.
Final Review: Both parties evaluate the tool's data security, privacy, and accessibility of the tool. The admin creates user documentation and installation notes for other admins to use in the future.
Approved or Not Approved: Based on the results of the earlier steps in the process, the tool is either approved for use or put on hold until the vendor completes requested actions. If an application has been submitted for review, it will be listed as either Approved, under review, or on Hold. Applications will be listed as Approved once they can be used in the DLE.
If an application has been submitted for review, it will be listed as either Approved, under review, or on Hold. Applications will be listed as Approved once they can be used in the DLE.
Procurement and Licensing
The DLE third-party application vetting process does not replace any Universities of Wisconsin procurement processes or requirements. Application approval by this review process does not grant procurement authority. Please ensure a signed third-party tool application agreement is in place before to purchase.
Want to Integrate an Application Not Listed Here?
To request a new integration, please complete the .
