The University of Alabama is undertaking a comprehensive modernization of its enterprise systems to better serve students, faculty, and staff. This multi-year initiative will transform how UA manages operations across Human Resources, Finance, and Research Administration, while also enhancing data, security, and integration capabilities. Efforts include…
Workday Implementation
To modernize and streamline HR and Finance operations, UA will implement Workday, a modern, cloud-based ERP platform. Workday was selected through a rigorous evaluation process led by UA’s executive leadership team, representing Human Resources, Finance, Research Administration, Procurement, Operations, and Academic Affairs.
The selection process included:
- An initial RFI in late 2023
- On-site vendor demonstrations in June 2025
- Detailed process sessions
- Peer testimonials, site visits, reference checks, and executive reviews
Workday stood out across nearly all key differentiators.
Why Workday?
- Improves data quality and transparency
- Automates processes for greater efficiency
- Enhances security and supports modern features like automatic updates and AI-driven operations
UA has partnered with Huron as its implementation service provider. Huron has supported UA’s ERP modernization efforts since 2021.
Timeline: Initial deployment is planned for December 2025 – February 2028, with additional modules to follow based on project team and leadership decisions.
Huron Research Suite (HRS) Implementation
To support UA’s growing research enterprise and meet evolving regulatory requirements, UA will implement the Huron Research Suite (HRS)—a comprehensive set of cloud-based tools designed to improve efficiency and compliance in sponsored projects.
HRS Modules Include:
- Grants management
- Conflict of interest
- Effort certification
- IRB (human subjects) and IACUC (animal safety)
- Sponsored contract agreements
- Animal operations
- Biosafety
- Research analytics
This implementation will automate and centralize research administration, reduce administrative burden, and provide stakeholders with transparent, data-driven insights.
Timeline: Implementation will run from October 2025 – October 2027.
Data/Analytics Strategy
To maximize the reporting capabilities of UA’s enterprise tools, UA will develop an enterprise data analytics and reporting strategy based on both current and future reporting needs and the identification of tools and infrastructure needed to achieve those future needs.
Establishing a data and analytics strategy will modernize institutional decision-making by aligning ERP functionality with future reporting needs and enabling integrated, real-time insights across HR, finance, and student systems. These tools will empower UA to scale analytics capabilities over time, improving operational efficiency and constituent engagement across the university.
Identity Management Upgrade
As part of its modernization program UA will implement an identity access management (IAM) solution to ensure secure, efficient, and seamless operations as part of its modernization program. This solution will enable UA to reduce manual workload, streamline user lifecycle management, and automate access provisioning.
The IAM platform will enhance security and regulatory compliance across campus systems. The solution will support modern security standards like Zero Trust and NIST 800 to protect UA’s sensitive data.
Integration Platform Implementation
To ensure seamless connectivity across systems, UA will deploy an integration platform that enables real-time data flow and reduces silos.
Utilizing an integration platform will simplify and strengthen how UA’s systems connect, reducing operational risks and future costs. Additionally, this tool will position UA for future growth, making it easier to adapt to evolving needs, including the addition of technology solutions without disruption.