Building a Simpler, More Secure Digital Experience
The University of Montana is modernizing how digital identities are managed across campus through the One Digital Identity Project.
The goal of this IT-led project is to create a more seamless, secure, and consistent technology experience for the campus community by simplifying how people access university systems and services.
Over time, the project will establish a stronger foundation for managing digital identities across the university, helping ensure members of the UM community have the appropriate access to the tools and resources they need to learn, teach, work, and collaborate.
Simplifying Access, Improving the Digital Experience
Today, many members of the campus community use multiple usernames, accounts, or authentication methods across different university systems.
Managing separate identities creates challenges, including:
- Confusion about usernames and access credentials
- Increased support and troubleshooting needs
- Greater security risk
- Challenges managing access for individuals with multiple university roles
- Additional complexity when implementing new technologies and services
The One Digital Identity Project is designed to address these challenges while creating a more consistent and user-friendly experience across campus.
What Is Changing?
The project will introduce improvements through multiple phases. Planned enhancements include:
- More consistent login credentials for university systems
- A more unified approach to digital identity and email management
- Expanded single sign-on capabilities
- Improved account creation, access management, and account lifecycle processes
- Streamlined password management
- Modernized multi-factor authentication (MFA)
These changes will occur gradually through phased implementations designed to support testing, communication, and a smooth transition for the campus community.
Current Project Status
The One Digital Identity Project continues to move forward incrementally, with meaningful progress taking place “behind the scenes.” Current work includes:
- Consolidating accounts across campus systems
- Automating account provisioning and deprovisioning processes
- Transitioning services to Microsoft Entra
What to Expect Next
As specific changes are planned, affected individuals and departments will receive advance communication, guidance, and resources. UM Information Technology is committed to providing meaningful information and updates throughout the project.
This information is current as of July 2026. A more detailed timeline will be made available as it is developed.