OHIO planning a strategic modernization of its Enterprise Resource Planning software

Ohio University will proceed with plans to modernize its Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software system – an effort that will deliver value across the University by providing flexibility to meet changing digital needs, modernizing and streamlining the user experience, retrieving valuable data insights and strengthening security.

The Board of Trustees approved funding for the first phase of the ERP modernization initiative to update key technology systems and business processes in finance and human resources during meetings Friday, Jan. 17.

Following the Board’s phase one approval, OHIO will now begin a collaborative process to select both an ERP technology vendor and an implementation partner to serve as an expert advisor. Implementation work is expected to begin in January 2026, with the new system launch planned for January 2028.

The approved funding includes $35 million from IT reserves earmarked for this initiative. The remaining $9 million will be funded through $3 million in the University’s annual budget designated for future ERP replacement in fiscal years 2026, 2027 and 2028, for a total of $44 million.

Why modernization matters

As OHIO continues to modernize its academic programming, research enterprise and the student experience across all campuses, centers, and modalities, current administrative systems, some of which were built more than two decades ago, must also be modernized.

These systems encompass more than 100 applications and touch almost every aspect of OHIO’s operations—from processing payroll and awarding scholarships to enrolling students and managing research funds. Years of customizations and rapidly evolving technology will make these systems increasingly inefficient and costly to operate over time.

This modernization effort is akin to constructing a new building—requiring extensive planning, coordination, and investment—but its benefits will touch everyone at OHIO. 

Additional initiative details

The ERP modernization initiative is the result of a comprehensive assessment of business processes and technologies conducted in collaboration with a steering committee, the Huron Consulting Group, and more than 300 OHIO faculty and staff. It aims to modernize the way OHIO works, with benefits expected to include:

• Adaptability to change: Flexibility to respond quickly to evolving needs and take advantage of new opportunities.
• Improved user experience: Modern, intuitive tools that simplify tasks, integrate workflows, and free up time for more meaningful work.
• Better decision-making: Access to timely, accurate data insights and information to support both long-term planning and day-to-day operations.
• Increased effectiveness: Streamlined processes through simplification, standardization, and automation.
• Enhanced security and resilience: Strengthened compliance measures, improved data security, and robust support for business continuity.

Staying informed and involved

As this initiative gets underway, OIT will develop a comprehensive website to serve as a central hub for updates and resources. There will also be continued opportunities for you to provide feedback to support a successful project.

For more details on the results of the assessment, visit the ERP Assessment website. To submit feedback, questions, or concerns, complete the ERP Assessment Feedback Form.