What are the Preferred GivenName and Preferred Surname Options in Directory Manager?

What are the Preferred GivenName and Preferred Surname Options in Directory Manager?

In Directory Manager, the ‘Preferred GivenName’ and ‘Preferred Surname’ options are essential for reflecting a user’s chosen identity in the system. These options are beneficial in several aspects:

Purpose of Preferred Name Fields:

• Identity Representation: Allows users to specify their preferred names, which may differ from their legal names.
• Personalisation: Preferred names are used in system interfaces and communications, enhancing the user experience.
• Inclusivity: Acknowledges and respects individual identity preferences, supporting a diverse and inclusive environment.

Sourcing Preferred Names:

• Data Integration: Preferred names can be imported from external data sources, such as the Electronic Staff Record (ESR), ensuring consistency and accuracy across systems.
• Automated Updates: This integration facilitates automatic updates of preferred names, streamlining the process and maintaining up-to-date records.

Usage Scenarios:

• Formal vs. Informal Use: Legal names are used for formal records, while preferred names are displayed in informal contexts like email communications or directory listings.
• System Display: Preferred names enhance user interaction within the system, reflecting users’ identities in a respectful and personalised manner.
• Partially populated details: It does not matter if all of the source records have a preferred name value; the system can use the preferred name where available of revert to using the primary name values.

Technical Considerations:

• Distinct Data Fields: These fields are separate from legal name fields, allowing for differentiated use across various system modules.
• User Control: Users have the flexibility to populate these fields as per their preference, offering control over their identity representation within the system.

For guidance on managing these options or integrating preferred names from sources like ESR, please consult the Directory Manager documentation or contact our support team.