To increase efficiency and effectiveness of operations To improve customer service To better adapt to growth and change The University currently supports 24 core information systems and 26 programming languages. This is in addition to more than 120 supplemental systems. There are now demands and expectations that challenge these systems that can only be met by an integrated system. Some of these demands stem from decentralization of certain functions from the State to UVa, from process improvement efforts, and from higher expectations from constituents both inside and outside of the University regarding ease of access to information. Simple enhancements would make the current system easier to navigate, but they would do nothing to reduce the inefficiencies, excessive cost and inflexibility of running 24 different systems.
Replacement is past due in some cases and the risk of failure in others increases with time.
In 1995, the University investigated replacing its budget system. The process was abandoned when it became clear that it was not economically or functionally advantageous to fix systems piecemeal. A subsequent two-year study concluded that a complete, integrated package would be required to meet current and future needs of the University. The technology and software now exist that offer highly functional, integrated applications. Other institutions have implemented similar projects, thus paving the way.