Administrative Modernization Program kicks off Oracle Cloud readiness projects

Oracle Cloud is the new enterprise system that will replace Ohio University’s current human resources and financial administrative systems. To prepare for the upcoming implementation, the University is conducting several readiness projects to ensure a smooth transition to the new system

Readiness projects are a set of planning, analysis and preparation activities that take place before an organization launches a new enterprise system like Oracle Cloud. The goal is to ensure a smooth implementation by addressing organizational, technical and process-related requirements in advance.

These projects include selecting an implementation partner, redesigning the financial chart of accounts, and developing new strategies for identity management and position management to improve systems access and security.

These projects are slated for spring and summer 2026 as part of the Administrative Modernization Program. By investing time now in planning and preparation, we can prevent delays, reduce risk and ensure the new system meets the University’s needs from day one.

Implementation of Oracle Cloud will begin in January 2027, with a launch planned for January 2029. 

Implementation partner RFP

The University has issued a request for proposal (RFP) to identify an implementation partner. The implementation partner will bring technical expertise, higher education experience and guidance on best practice processes to support the Oracle Cloud implementation.

Finalists will be invited to campus presentations in May.

Chart of accounts redesign

The chart of accounts redesign will ensure the University’s financial chart of accounts aligns with Oracle Cloud’s structure and reporting capabilities. The chart of accounts serves as the foundation for how financial data is categorized and reported, directly impacting the accuracy of management reporting, financial statements and compliance.

By revising our chart of accounts, we can streamline account structures, eliminate redundancies and incorporate best practices that support both current operational needs and future growth. This proactive approach ensures that the Oracle Cloud system delivers accurate, consistent and actionable financial information from day one.

Updating the chart prior to the implementation allows staff time to learn about the new structure prior to adopting the new system. 

Identity lifecycle management

Oracle Cloud uses role-based access, granting permissions based on an employee’s role and position. This ensures everyone automatically has the exact tools and system access they need to do their job smoothly and efficiently from day one.

To make this possible, this project will look at the best ways to seamlessly provide and coordinate that access across a variety of users (faculty, staff, students, retirees, alumni, etc.) throughout their time with the University. This readiness project will focus on planning and design. Any changes will be implemented alongside Oracle Cloud and launch in January 2029.  

Position management and planning

Position management is a system term that refers to how job roles are organized behind the scenes to ensure everyone has the right system access for their role. In Oracle Cloud, your access is tied directly to your position. To ensure this works seamlessly, this project will help accurately map job responsibilities and departmental reporting lines within the new system.

The University is also reviewing how the system tracks the creation and filling of open positions to provide a clearer overview for budget planning. Together, these updates simply create a better behind-the-scenes framework to help departments organize their structures and support their teams. Like the identity lifecycle management project, this readiness project will focus solely on planning and system design work.

Any recommended changes will be carefully reviewed and discussed prior to implementation

Looking ahead

These readiness projects are planned to continue through the summer.

In January 2027, the project team and implementation partner will begin the work of building and configuring the new Oracle Cloud system. By investing in these foundational areas now, OHIO will be positioned for a smoother Oracle Cloud transition and stronger long-term outcomes.

The selection of Oracle Cloud was announced in February as part of the Administrative Modernization Program (AMP).

For more updates, subscribe to the AMP newsletter or visit www.ohio.edu/amp. The website provides additional context for why these readiness projects were selected, as well as a glossary of terms associated with the Oracle Cloud implementation.

Additional updates and opportunities to learn more will be shared as this work progresses.