MUS Single Learning Management System

Background

Today, Montana University System institutions use three separate Learning Management Systems (LMS). In most cases, these systems have been in use for more than a decade, during which time pedagogies have evolved, use of learning management tools by faculty has grown, and the range of solutions available has expanded significantly.

In November 2021, the Montana Board of Regents charged the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education to work with campuses to identify a single LMS vendor for the Montana University System.  This resulting LMS should provide a better teaching and learning experience for students and faculty while lowering licensing and support costs systemwide. Long term, this system should also enable a more seamless experience for an increasingly mobile student body and facilitate multi-campus academic collaborations.

In Spring 2022, a group of faculty, staff, students, and leadership convened to guide a needs analysis and request for information process, which identified what experience and tools MUS faculty and students expect from a modern LMS and provided opportunities for campus stakeholders to interact with different LMS systems. The results of this analysis informed a request for proposals and final selection of a vendor will happen by Summer 2023.  Campuses will then transition to the new system by Fall term 2025.

Proposed Timeline