Securing Oracle PeopleSoft at LifeWay with Integrated MFA and SSO

Executive Summary

LifeWay, a longstanding leader in Christian resources and publishing, needed to modernize the security of its Oracle PeopleSoft environment while ensuring a frictionless user experience. By deploying the Datawiza Access Proxy to integrate its existing Microsoft Entra Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solution and enable Single Sign-On (SSO), LifeWay achieved a secure, streamlined PeopleSoft system that supports critical business functions.

Company Overview

LifeWay Christian Resources, founded in 1891 and based in Nashville, Tennessee, is a prominent Baptist publishing house and religious non-profit. With deep roots in providing quality Christian books, curricula, and church business services, LifeWay has continually embraced innovative technology to support its mission. As it evolved from a network of brick-and-mortar stores to a robust digital presence, LifeWay has maintained its focus on modernizing its IT infrastructure—including its enterprise PeopleSoft systems—to ensure operational excellence and security.

Background

Oracle PeopleSoft is central to LifeWay’s operations, managing essential functions such as human resources, finance, and supply chain management. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the need for advanced security measures became critical. At the same time, users experienced challenges with the existing PeopleSoft authentication processes, which were fragmented and cumbersome. LifeWay sought to enhance security without disrupting business continuity or overhauling its legacy PeopleSoft environment.

The Challenge

• Outdated Security Measures: Legacy PeopleSoft authentication methods were increasingly vulnerable.
• Fragmented User Experience: Multiple logins led to inefficiencies and user frustration.
• Integration with Existing MFA: Leveraging Microsoft Entra MFA was essential without major system changes.

The Solution: Datawiza Access Proxy Implementation

LifeWay partnered with Datawiza to deploy its Access Proxy as an intermediary layer in front of Oracle PeopleSoft. This non-invasive solution was configured to:

1. Integrate Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): By directly interfacing with Microsoft Entra MFA, every PeopleSoft access request underwent robust multi-factor verification, significantly mitigating security risks.
2. Enable Single Sign-On (SSO): SSO was implemented to allow users a one-time, secure login that provided seamless access across PeopleSoft modules, reducing login fatigue and administrative overhead.
3. Maintain System Integrity: The proxy-based approach introduced advanced security features without requiring changes to the underlying PeopleSoft infrastructure, ensuring continuous business operations and minimal downtime.

Implementation Process

• Assessment & Planning: LifeWay’s IT team, together with Datawiza experts, mapped critical PeopleSoft access points and defined integration requirements with Microsoft Entra MFA.
• Configuration & Integration: The Datawiza Access Proxy was deployed to intercept PeopleSoft login requests, channeling them through the MFA process while enabling SSO for a unified authentication experience.
• Testing & Rollout: Comprehensive testing ensured secure and user-friendly authentication flows. Following successful user acceptance testing, the solution was rolled out incrementally to minimize operational disruption.
• Training & Support: End-user training sessions and ongoing technical support ensured smooth adaptation to the new security process, enhancing overall system efficiency.

Results and Benefits

• Enhanced Security: The integration of Microsoft Entra MFA dramatically reduced unauthorized access risks.
• Improved User Experience: SSO streamlined authentication, lessening user frustration and boosting productivity.
• Operational Efficiency: The non-invasive deployment ensured continuous PeopleSoft operations with minimal downtime.

Conclusion

By deploying the Datawiza Access Proxy with integrated Microsoft Entra MFA and SSO, LifeWay successfully fortified its Oracle PeopleSoft environment. This strategic upgrade not only heightened security but also provided a seamless user experience, allowing LifeWay to continue its mission of delivering high-quality Christian resources with enhanced operational resilience and efficiency.