Choosing a supplier through the APUC Framework is not only a procurement decision; it is a strategic step for finance teams in Higher and Further Education looking to manage accountability, improve reporting, and deliver assurance — all within constrained budgets.
But what makes the right supplier for the APUC framework?
That is what we will cover in this article.
More Than Software — A Strategic Partnership
A finance system is only as effective as the team that delivers and supports it.
Higher and Further Education institutions face sector-specific demands that few outside providers fully grasp.
Funding constraints, ever-changing regulatory obligations, and dual reporting to SFC and HESA create complexity that demands not just software but understanding.
At FinanSys, we embed that understanding into every project. We have implemented systems that help finance teams address project-led budgeting and complex compliance while supporting scalable growth.
This partnership mindset means we work alongside you, not just during implementation, but throughout the life of your system. We pair our software with sector-specific consulting and support teams who speak your language.
From structured training to ongoing system improvements, you gain a partner who is embedded in the success of your finance operations.
Proven Delivery Across Complex, Regulated Sectors
The right supplier brings more than software credentials — they bring relevant delivery experience.
Institutions should be asking: Has this supplier delivered in similar environments?
For example, FinanSys has over 25 years of success in implementing finance systems for public sector organisations, charities, international entities, and government departments.
These sectors mirror the operational profile of universities and colleges: project-based accounting, multiple funding lines, and detailed reporting hierarchies.
Our work spans organisations with multiple companies, departments, and reporting obligations.
We implement solutions that manage layered cost centres, grant tracking, cross-entity consolidation, and integration with HR, procurement, and student systems — all without custom code or complexity.
We maintain a 94% renewal rate and hold the highest customer retention for Infor SunSystems. These figures reflect more than technical capability — they show long-term trust and measurable results.
Integration and Interoperability as Standard
Interoperability is essential for Higher and Further Education institutions that rely on PECOS, student record systems, HR and payroll platforms, and business intelligence tools.
Our finance system — Infor SunSystems from FinanSys — is integration-ready. It supports real-time connectivity across your tech stack, including purchasing, payroll, and student services.
We deploy UniFi, our process automation platform, alongside every SunSystems implementation at no extra license cost.
UniFi acts as the glue between your core systems and workflows. Whether automating journal uploads, connecting third-party applications, or streamlining invoicing, it is built to remove manual processes and reduce reliance on workarounds. Being “open” and integrated isn’t a bonus — it’s a baseline. And with UniFi’s powerful middleware connecting all systems, you can get a single source of truth to maximise efficiency.
Long-Term Viability and Support Commitment
A finance system is a multi-year commitment. Picking the right supplier isn’t just about who delivers today — it’s about who evolves with you for the next 5–10 years.
Institutions must ask: Is this supplier committed to supporting us in the long term?
FinanSys is independently owned, financially stable, and fully UK-based. We invest in sustainable growth, not short-term revenue.
Our focus is on support excellence and continuity — reflected in our high support staff-to-customer ratio and the assignment of a dedicated Customer Success Manager for every client.
Our team structure means you receive faster resolutions and proactive engagement. Our global reach allows us to bring broad insight while delivering support that is tailored and local.
Commitment to Compliance and Sector Mandates
Compliance with EU e-invoicing, HMRC Making Tax Digital, HESA, and SFC is non-negotiable and not an optional extra — it is a requirement for credibility and sustainability.
We were the first provider to offer a Making Tax Digital solution for SunSystems that is recognised by HMRC.
Our systems enable full compliance with SFC and HESA reporting, including the ability to produce returns in the required formats.
SunSystems, supported by FinanSys, meets and exceeds the capabilities required by the APUC Framework.
From detailed audit trails and budget version tracking to e-invoicing and cash flow forecasting, our solution covers the full scope of institutions’ requirements.
Features such as multi-entity support, drill-down reporting, real-time dashboards, and full integration with procurement and HR systems are already in active use across our client base.
UniFi supports organisations using PEPPOL by providing e-invoicing data in any required format. Thanks to our flexible data connectors, we can send and receive data via any API or protocol.
This enables seamless integration with your payment workflows — not only for issuing invoices but also configured for reception of e-invoices and processing them directly within our P2P Enterprise Suite.
The Next Step
The APUC Framework is more than a procurement exercise. It is a chance to shape the future of finance operations in Higher and Further Education.
The right partner will offer more than compliant software and bring with them sector experience, operational understanding, and a track record of delivery.
If your institutions are focused on meaningful partnership, measurable outcomes, and sector-aligned innovation, we would welcome the opportunity to support that ambition.
Let us show you how our systems, service model, and sector insight can help you achieve more with confidence. Get in touch with us now!
