Frequently Asked Questions

Project NextGen is the system-wide initiative to modernize ERP processes and tools. The first year is a Foundation Phase, which brings teams and leadership together to set the vision, assess current systems, and prepare for a potential implementation.

Not yet. The Foundation Phase will conclude with a leadership discussion in April 2026 to review the investment, costs, and timeline for potential modernization.

Project NextGen is organized into multiple workstreams: business process transformation, technology assessment and rationalization, program planning & change management, and procurement strategy & approach.

Project NextGen involves participation from stakeholders and leadership from across the system with expertise in ERP systems and processes. Individuals are being organized into workstream teams through campus leadership. 

Timelines for a potential implementation are being developed during the Foundation Phase. ​

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) technologies are used across all operational aspects of higher ed administration, including human resources, finance, and student administration / information systems.

A modern ERP platform would provide an improved employee experience and enhanced capabilities and reporting tools. It would also provide the opportunity to redesign business processes.

Yes. The ERP Roadmap confirmed that student systems are important to consider within a unified ERP. It also recognized that student systems have unique needs across campuses and that the marketplace for these solutions is less mature. As part of the Foundation Phase, UMass will further analyze student-related business processes and current technologies before determining next steps.

The project team will provide monthly information sessions and status reports, which will be published to the Project NextGen website.  ​