Related Projects
Transforming how Minnesota State serves students
NextGen is powered by a portfolio of connected projects that work together to modernize systems, align processes, and improve the student experience across Minnesota State. Each project plays a critical role in building a more unified, equitable, and future-ready system.
Together, these efforts move us from fragmented systems to one Minnesota State; where innovation is shared, data is connected, and students are supported every step of the way.
How These Projects Work Together
NextGen projects are not standalone efforts—they are intentionally connected.
- Companion Projects ensure continuity by ensuring essential tools and systems
- Equity 2030 a system wide commitment to closing equity gaps
- Modern Data Architecture turning data into insights to drive student outcomes
- Policy and Process Alignment standardizing practices across campuses to create consistency, reduce complexity and improve efficiency
- Workday provides the foundation of core student, human capital management, and finance functions
Together, these projects move us from disconnected systems to one Minnesota State; where processes are aligned, data is connected, and every student is better supported.
Companion projects ensure Minnesota State campuses are fully prepared for Workday Student by delivering the tools, integrations, and solutions needed to support students and employees. These projects range from campus-specific tools to systemwide innovations and fill critical gaps beyond the student information system, creating a connected and modern ecosystem.
Working alongside the Workday Student timeline, companion projects are thoughtfully planned, designed, built, and deployed to ensure a smooth transition and long-term success. Together, they drive a more integrated, efficient, and future-ready system that supports student success across Minnesota State. Minnesota State employees can visit the NextGen Hub for more detailed information on companion projects.
The goal of Equity 2030 is bold and clear: eliminate educational equity gaps across Minnesota State by 2030. Achieving this requires innovation, strong partnerships, and a deep commitment to transforming both systems and cultures.
NextGen plays a critical role in this work by modernizing technology, aligning processes, and creating a more connected, student-centered experience. Together, these efforts expand access, strengthen student success, and ensure Minnesota has the talent needed to thrive.
At its heart, this is about opportunity—empowering every student to build a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities. Visit the Equity 2030 website to learn more.
The Modern Data Architecture (MDA) project is transforming how campuses access and use data by bringing everything into a shared, cloud-based platform that delivers one trusted source of truth.
Powered by Microsoft Fabric and a modern data lake approach, MDA provides real-time, secure, and standardized data that’s ready for reporting, dashboards, and advanced analytics. Instead of managing separate data systems, campuses can focus on using high-quality data to drive decisions and support students.
Resulting efficiencies include less duplication, stronger insights, and greater collaboration across Minnesota State. With shared tools and scalable solutions, MDA empowers campuses to work smarter, innovate faster, and better support student success. Minnesota State employees can visit the Data Architecture page on Connect.
NextGen is transforming the student experience at Minnesota State by aligning policies and processes to create a simpler, more connected experience. By reviewing key business processes and making intentional alignment decisions, the system is removing barriers, improving efficiency, and ensuring students can focus on success.
This collaborative, systemwide effort brings together campuses and leaders to streamline how work gets done all while staying flexible where it matters most. The result will be a more consistent student experience, stronger data and reporting, and better use of resources across Minnesota State.
At its core, alignment is about one goal: making it easier for students to learn, progress, and achieve their goals. Minnesota State employees can visit the NextGen Hub for more detailed information on policy and process alignment.
Minnesota State is advancing the NextGen transformation with the implementation of Workday Student - a modern, cloud-based system that will replace ISRS and unify student services across the system.
Workday Student brings everything into one streamlined platform to offer a more connected experience that supports students. For employees, it enhances efficiency, strengthens data and analytics, and aligns processes systemwide. Visit the NextGen About page to learn more.