As the academic year begins, we are sharing an update on the University’s Cloud Enabling and Agresso Re-platforming (CLEAR) programme. This strategic programme, to move Agresso (the University’s finance system), to the cloud and provide the digital foundations to migrate other key systems. This move will ensure secure access and support future ways of working.

A milestone moment

In May 2025, Council approved the proposal to move to a Cloud-based version of Agresso by mid-2026. This is an important step in ensuring the system remains secure, supported and fit for purpose in how we deliver financial services across the University. Also providing the University with the infrastructure to move other systems to the cloud.

The reason for this change

Like many software providers, Unit4 (Agresso’s supplier) is moving away from locally installed systems to cloud-based platforms. You will be familiar with this shift through tools like Microsoft 365 or Google Drive, where work is stored securely online and accessed from anywhere.

Currently:

  • The system runs on physical servers and local computers hosted at the University

  • System support and updates being largely manual

By mid-2026, we are working towards:

  • Agresso running securely in the cloud

  • Secure access from anywhere via a standard web browser

  • Adoption of standardised functionality (rather than customisation)

  • Automatic software updates

  • Real-time access to budget and financial reports

What this means for budget holders and expense users

For now, there is nothing colleagues need to do. Over the next year we’ll share updates via the Agresso User Group, CLEAR information portal and the University’s website staff pages. You will have chance you see the cloud version of Agresso, be offered training and become comfortable using the new system before it ‘goes live’.

Next steps

Thank you to all colleagues who have supported the programme so far. Your input is helping us shape and design the future system.

Do ask questions or contact Programme Manager Chris Martin.

Keep up to date on progress with the CLEAR programme's SharePoint information portal.