OHIO to assess key business practices and supporting technology

Ohio University is assessing its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms and closely related applications that support three core University capabilities: human resources, finance, and student administration.

This assessment will focus on the effectiveness of business processes (hiring, onboarding, paying invoices, enrolling for classes, etc.) and the effectiveness of their implementation in a system (Oracle E-Business Suite, Workforce, Concur, BobcatBuy, PeopleSoft, Faculty and Advising Center, OCEAN, etc.).

This assessment is the first phase of a multi-phase approach to evaluating, selecting and eventually implementing a new digital ecosystem to support core University functions and modernize how Ohio University works to support the student, employee and community experience.

Why are we conducting an assessment? 

Our current systems have evolved over several decades, and we need to modernize our technologies and practices to better meet the needs of the University community. This process will take significant time and resources, and planning now will help us optimize current investments and prepare for the future.

What is the purpose of this assessment? 

The assessment aims to develop a comprehensive, long-term strategy for the University's ERP ecosystem. We will create a roadmap for replacing our ERP systems, analyze the resources and costs involved, and evaluate how modern technology and business processes can improve our operations and experiences. Decisions about specific technology platforms will come in a later phase.

How will the assessment be conducted?  

We’re partnering with Huron Consulting Group, a firm with expertise specific to higher education ERP systems, to conduct the assessment. The assessment will focus on technologies and processes in human resources, finance, and student information systems. A steering committee consisting of leaders and stakeholders from those functional areas will oversee the assessment.

What to expect next?

The OHIO project team and partners from Huron will conduct interviews and surveys with Ohio University faculty and staff, focusing on the following areas:  

• Understanding how the systems are currently used 
• Identifying areas for increased efficiency and improvement 
• Assessing current technological capabilities 
• Understanding potential risks and strategies to address them 
• Evaluating OHIO’s readiness for this change 

We appreciate your cooperation and input during this important process.