Optimizing performance and scalability through seamless cloud migration for University 

Migrating to cloud for improved performance and scalability

Client Overview 

One of the UK’s leading higher education institutions, recognized for its excellence in research and teaching, required a solution to manage its complex financial operations, which are critical to supporting both academic and administrative activities.

Project Overview 

VE3 was engaged to migrate the financial system of a prominent UK higher education institution from an on-premises Unit4 solution to Unit4’s SaaS platform. This project involved transitioning essential financial modules, including General Ledger, Budgeting, Accounts Payable, and Treasury Management, to the cloud.

Objectives

Migration Scope

Ensure a seamless transition to the SaaS platform with minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

Optimization

Improve system performance while ensuring scalability and flexibility for future growth.

Stakeholder Engagement

Maintain active collaboration with finance and ICT teams throughout the project.

Solution

Created a comprehensive project plan, with a governance framework, risk management, and regular status updates. 

Defined the project team and mapped key stakeholders. 

Completed a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA). 

Analyzed the current system to assess data completeness, integrations, and reporting needs. 

Held stakeholder workshops to confirm scope and address any customizations. 

Established a baseline project plan based on stakeholder input. 

Configured the Cloud system to replicate current functionalities and meet reporting requirements. 

Re-established integrations for smooth data flow and system interoperability. 

Implemented user access controls and conducted unit testing. 

Mapped data structures for the Cloud environment. 

Conducted readiness assessments and pilot migrations to identify and resolve potential issues. 

Developed a test plan and provided training for stakeholders to ensure readiness. 

Executed User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and other functional and non-functional tests. 

Developed and executed a business readiness plan to prepare all users for the transition. 

Executed a full-scale deployment following successful pilots, with post-cutover validation to ensure everything worked as expected. 

Provided dedicated support during the post-migration period to address any immediate issues. 

Transitioned from project mode to business-as-usual (BAU) operations, with ongoing support from the ICT and finance teams. 

Results 

Seamless Migration

The system was transitioned to the Cloud with no significant downtime or disruptions

Improved Performance

System performance and scalability were significantly enhanced, providing a more stable platform for future growth.  

Stakeholder Satisfaction

Stakeholders were highly satisfied, with the system meeting or exceeding expectations. 

Conclusion

VE3 was engaged to migrate the financial system of a leading higher education institution known for its extensive academic and administrative operations. The project involved transitioning critical financial modules, such as General Ledger, Budgeting, Accounts Payable, and Treasury Management, from an on-premises Unit4 solution to Unit4’s SaaS platform.