Systemwide ERP Request for Proposals Announced

The University of Arkansas System Board of Trustees announced a request for proposals (RFP) in October for support to manage the process of acquiring and implementing new enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. 

ERP software supports business process management, allowing an organization to leverage a system of integrated applications to manage processes such as financial management, procurement, human resource management, payroll, and administration and student information systems. The ERP systems on the University of Arkansas campus are BASIS and ISIS. The choice of a new University of Arkansas System ERP may have ramifications for the future of the University of Arkansas ERP systems as well.

"We intend to move as quickly as possible to better understand our ERP needs on campus," Chris McCoy, the University of Arkansas chief information officer, said. "By gathering information about our systems and data, we can participate proactively in the systemwide RFP process."

As a first step, IT Services created an "ERP eco system diagram that clearly charts a mind-blowing number of dependencies on ISIS and BASIS," McCoy said. "As we move through this process, communication from those who use ISIS and BASIS will be key to our success."

The systemwide RFP release date was Oct. 26. The selection of a vendor is scheduled for Jan. 12, 2016, with the project commencing on Feb. 20. The selected vendor will develop a strategy for replacing current systems, support the acquisition and implementation processes, and provide independent project oversight.

University of Arkansas is expected to have three representatives on the system RFP committee.