Catamount LEAP is UVM's strategic initiative to improve how the university works and serves its community. Through its two interconnected focus areas, ERP Modernization and Operational Excellence, the program is aimed at enhancing the community experience, reducing administrative burden, strengthening data and reporting capabilities, and helping UVM operate more effectively and efficiently.
ERP Modernization – Moving from Evaluation to Readiness
Over the past several months, many faculty and staff participated in a comprehensive evaluation of future ERP solutions. We are deeply grateful for the time, expertise, and thoughtful insights they contributed throughout this process.
The work completed to date has established a strong foundation for future planning and decision making. The knowledge gained through this evaluation process, along with the perspectives shared by faculty and staff, will continue to inform UVM’s technology and operational strategy.
Following the evaluation process, UVM is strategically sequencing our plan for implementation to first focus on the foundational work necessary for a successful launch. This work includes strengthening organizational readiness, advancing finance, human resources, data, business processes, and technology improvements, and ensuring the university is well positioned to maximize the value of an ERP investment. This approach also reflects UVM's current institutional priorities, available resources, and the evolving higher education landscape.
Importantly, this sequencing does not change UVM’s commitment to modernization. Rather, it provides an opportunity to focus on improvements that benefit the university today while laying the groundwork for long-term success.
Implementing Operational Excellence
Catamount LEAP will continue to advance a focused portfolio of Operational Excellence initiatives. Following months of review and prioritization, sponsors and governance groups have approved a set of initiatives that will advance through implementation, designated funding pathways, or additional discovery work to inform future investment decisions. An updated governance structure will focus increasingly on removing barriers, aligning resources, monitoring program health, and ensuring that modernization efforts remain aligned with UVM’s strategic priorities.
Looking Ahead
Catamount LEAP will focus on turning plans into action. In the coming weeks, the team will refresh the program's roadmap, confirm near-term priorities, and share next steps with the university community. The work will continue to support practical improvements today while preparing UVM for future modernization.