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ERP Task Force

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) seeks to consolidate all of a company’s departments and functions into a single computer system that services the university and each department’s specific needs. At K-State we frequently refer to our large central systems such as KSIS, FIS & HRIS as "ERP" systems.

Currently, K-State’s ERP systems use antiquated technology; in some cases, near end-of-life technology. Extensive local customizations to existing systems have reduced our capacity to stay current with major upgrades over the past several years. Cloud based solutions and technological advances are changing the ERP space requiring careful consideration by K-State.

The Charge

The Administrative Efficiencies Review Committee has recommended the replacement of K-State’s ERP Systems. The Enterprise Systems Exploratory Task Force (ERP Task Force) will explore the options available for the future of K-State’s major enterprise systems that support the critical university business functions of human capital management, financial management, and student management. They will evaluate the options for enhancement, migration, and/or replacement of major systems, including but not limited to HRIS, FIS, and KSIS.

Getting started now is important as the long-term costs of maintaining the existing systems will likely continue to grow. Consequently, K-State may miss out on the operational efficiencies that may exist with new ERP solutions. ERP upgrades or replacements typically require a large-scale effort and substantial investment of staff time and resources. K-State will need to carefully assess its own readiness for a major ERP project as well as understand the options available and their impact on university business operations in the short-term and long-term.

Outcomes from this task force include:

  • Identify the challenges involved with the current ERP systems, and determine how investment in new ERP solutions can support strategic business goals.
  • Determine campus readiness for a change in ERP systems.
  • Engage with peer institutions to evaluate their ERP strategies and roadmaps.
  • Engage with system vendors to evaluate next-generation and post-modern ERP solutions.
  • Develop a report outlining ERP strategic recommendations of the task force and suggested next steps.