The University of Nebraska System is embarking on a transformative project to streamline and modernize digital collaboration across its campuses. Over the next 18 months, Information Technology Services, in partnership with Microsoft, will unify Microsoft 365 for the University of Nebraska at Kearney, Lincoln, Omaha, and the Office of the President. (UNMC is not in scope for this project at this time.)
The initiative, which includes the migration of 166,000 active accounts and more than four petabytes of data, is designed to enhance collaboration, simplify technology usage, and position the University to lead in education and research through the use of emerging digital tools.
“This is about more than technology—it’s about building a more connected and future-ready University of Nebraska,” said Bret Blackman, Vice President and Chief Information Officer for the NU System. “By unifying Microsoft 365, we’re eliminating barriers to collaboration, improving productivity, and better preparing our campuses to leverage cutting-edge technologies, including AI tools like Microsoft Copilot.”
The project will enable seamless communication and collaboration across campuses, improve secure storage solutions for research and reduce cybersecurity risks. Faculty, staff, and students will benefit from a single, unified sign-in for Microsoft services, while maintaining their campus-specific email identities (@unl, @unomaha, @unk). The initiative aligns with the University’s broader strategic vision to advance “Extraordinary Stewardship and Effectiveness,” one of five foundational pillars by University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D.
“This effort reflects our commitment to wise resource stewardship and innovative collaboration,” Gold said. “It ensures that our University is ready to lead in the next era of teaching, research, and engagement.”
Project Benefits
- Seamless Collaboration: Faculty, staff, and students across campuses will be able to collaborate more effectively on a single Microsoft 365 platform, eliminating the need for multiple accounts or logins.
- Future-Ready Tools: Access to advanced technologies like Microsoft Copilot AI and Teams Phone to support productivity and innovation.
- Secure Storage Solutions: Compliant storage options through OneDrive, SharePoint, and Teams for research and collaborative projects.
- Improved Cybersecurity: Unified sign-ins will enhance security while maintaining individual campus identities.