Higher education institutions are under growing pressure as they navigate tight budgets, shifting funding models, and rising expectations for student services. Colleges and universities must carefully track and justify every dollar spent, adapt to fluctuating enrollment trends, and comply with increasingly complex regulatory requirements. In this challenging environment, traditional workflows that rely on paper, spreadsheets, and manual data entry are no longer sustainable. They create bottlenecks, drive up costs, and hinder the ability to serve students efficiently. Enterprise content management (ECM) solutions offer a powerful alternative, helping institutions modernize their operations, streamline processes, and deliver better service campus-wide.
Digital Transformation: A Strategic Priority
By digitizing records, automating processes, and centralizing content, enterprise content management (ECM) empowers institutions to:
- Streamline administrative tasks
- Free up staff time for higher-value work
- Reduce reliance on paper, printing, and physical storage
- Improve data accuracy and compliance
- Increase responsiveness to students and staff
Solutions like OnBase by Hyland are leading the way by providing secure, flexible platforms for managing content and automating processes across the entire campus lifecycle—from admissions to alumni relations.
Enterprise Content Management: Where Cost Savings Happens
Implementing ECM can deliver cost savings in several areas across the institution.
Eliminate Physical Storage Costs
- Remove the need for paper archives and storage rooms
- Repurpose physical space for student services, instruction, or research
- Cut down on paper, toner, envelopes, and postage
Automate Manual Workflows
- Reduce time spent on tasks like transcript processing, application reviews, and financial aid verification
- Shift staff to more strategic or student-facing roles
- Minimize human error and associated rework
Optimize Financial Operations
- Automate invoicing, procurement, and contract approvals
- Speed up payment cycles and improve cash flow
- Reduce the risk of lost invoices or missed deadlines
Cut IT and Administrative Overhead
- Eliminate redundant systems by consolidating document storage
- Reduce the cost of maintaining printers, copiers, scanners, and fax machines
- Minimize time spent searching for files
Improve Enrollment and Retention
- Streamline document intake and review for admissions
- Provide faster, clearer communication with applicants
- Create a smoother, more modern student experience
Why OnBase Enterprise Content Management Stands Out
OnBase is more than just a document repository—it’s a complete platform that integrates content management, workflow automation, and business process optimization. Here’s how it helps higher ed institutions:
Centralize the Student Record
Manage a single, comprehensive student file that follows each individual from prospect to alumnus. This eliminates the need for multiple, redundant document storage systems and ensures consistency, accuracy, and security across all departments.
Automate Campus-Wide Processes
From application processing to transcript evaluation, financial aid review, and graduation audits, OnBase streamlines essential academic and administrative tasks. Automated workflows reduce repetitive work and allow staff to track document progress in real time, boosting overall efficiency.
Easy Integration with Campus Systems
OnBase connects with over 500 applications, including Ellucian, Anthology, Jenzabar, Workday, and Salesforce. This seamless integration allows users to access critical content directly within the systems they already use—eliminating the need for duplicate data entry and breaking down information silos.
Built-In Compliance and Security
Protect sensitive student data with role-based access controls and full audit trails. OnBase supports FERPA and other regulatory standards and offers flexible deployment options, whether on-premises or in the cloud.
Intuitive, No-Code Customization
IT teams can quickly adapt and update workflows using a drag-and-drop designer—no coding required. Whether you're changing how documents are routed or adjusting approval processes, OnBase makes it simple without needing expensive development resources.
End-to-End Efficiency Across Campus
Here’s a snapshot of where OnBase delivers value.
For more information on how ECM can be used across campus, please check out our blog article titled, “OnBase for Higher Education: Optimized Campus Efficiency through Digital Transformation.”
You can also download a copy of our our OnBase for Higher Education brochure.
Why 3SG Plus Is the Right Enterprise Content Management Partner
Deploying an ECM solution like OnBase is a strategic project—and choosing the right partner can make or break its success. 3SG Plus brings over 20 years of experience in digital transformation, with a focus on higher education.
What You Can Expect When Working with 3SG Plus:
- Tailored Implementation: We align OnBase to your institution’s exact needs—no one-size-fits-all templates.
- System Integration Expertise: We connect OnBase with your SIS, ERP, HRIS, and other tools for a seamless campus experience.
- Change Management Support: From training to user adoption strategies, we help your staff get comfortable with the new system fast.
- End-to-End Services: We’re there through planning, deployment, testing, go-live, and long-term support.
- Ongoing Partnership: We don’t disappear after implementation. Our team helps you expand, optimize, and maintain your ECM strategy over time.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or expanding an existing deployment, 3SG Plus helps you get the most value from your investment.
Transform Your Campus and Cut Costs—Without Compromising Service
Digitizing your campus isn’t just about technology—it’s about unlocking operational savings so you can reinvest in students, faculty, and learning. With OnBase by Hyland, your institution can:
- Eliminate inefficiencies
- Cut costs across departments
- Improve compliance and security
- Enhance the student and staff experience
And with 3SG Plus as your guide, you’ll get the expertise, hands-on support, and strategic insight needed to do it right.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Higher education is changing—and digital transformation is essential to stay ahead. Let 3SG Plus help your institution:
- Modernize outdated processes
- Reduce administrative overhead
- Streamline campus-wide operations
- Improve student service and satisfaction