Finance, HR/Payroll Systems and Associated Services
Framework Description
APUC's Finance, HR/Payroll Systems and Associated Services framework covers the software that universities and colleges use to run finance, HR and payroll. It has two lots: HR payroll systems and associated services, and finance systems and associated services. The current term ends on 7 January 2027, with an option to extend by 12 months to 7 January 2028. This framework is used by APUC and SUPC.
Context & Use Case
Finance, HR and IT teams use it when replacing ageing finance or payroll systems, moving to cloud software, or adding modules. These are long, high-risk projects involving data migration and integration with student records and other systems, so implementation services carry as much weight as the software itself. Institutions can buy finance and HR/payroll together or separately.
Scope of Services
HR payroll systems and associated services Finance systems and associated services Implementation and system integration Support, maintenance and training
Lots
HR Payroll Systems and Associated Services; Finance Systems and Associated Services
Who Can Apply
Suits finance, HR and payroll software vendors and their implementation partners, especially those with higher education clients. Applications for this framework are closed, so suppliers not already appointed cannot join until APUC re-tenders it, likely around January 2027, or 2028 if extended.
Buyer Benefits
Core system replacements are among the riskiest IT projects an institution undertakes. A framework gives buyers suppliers already assessed on security, functionality and delivery, with agreed contract terms, so they can focus evaluation on fit and implementation approach rather than basic checks.
Next Steps
With the end date of 7 January 2027 close, appointed suppliers should progress live opportunities quickly. Others should watch for the extension decision and the replacement tender on Public Contracts Scotland (original notice APR503697), and prepare implementation case studies, data migration methods and higher education references.
How Athena Can Help
Finance and HR system awards are won on implementation credibility. Athena's bid writers for software projects help appointed suppliers present migration and delivery plans that score well.
For the replacement framework, our framework application specialists prepare your submission for one or both lots. Our public tender commercial support also helps price licences and implementation so the bid wins without losing money, and on bid/no-bid decisions for each call-off you are invited to.
