Workday’s Spring 2026 release (2026R1) was deployed on Saturday, March 14, 2026. This twice-yearly update introduced enhancements to functionality, accessibility, security, and user experience for Minnesota State Workday users. Workday system releases occur every March and September, with additional minor updates deployed year-round by both Workday and Minnesota State.
What changed in the Spring 2026 release
The Spring 2026 release introduced functional improvements, user experience enhancements, and deeper automation to streamline workflows across core HR and finance processes. Most enhancements were behind the scenes, while some changes were more visible to users.
User efficiency improvements
- Fewer clicks: Many features were designed to reduce steps across common workflows.
- Less context switching: Improvements helped users complete tasks faster across HR and Finance.
Modernized look and easier search
- Visual refresh: A streamlined UI update across desktop and mobile began with a redesigned Home page, improving usability without changing existing configurations or security.
- Search bar repositioned: Search was repositioned as the primary entry point—centered at the top of the Workday Home page—while keeping the same apps, Announcements section, and Home page cards.
Getting help
To install the release, Workday was unavailable from 1–4 a.m. CDT on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
After the update, if users experience any new issues they did not see prior to March 14, 2026, they should submit a ticket to the Service Desk.
Content adapted from a project email sent on March 13, 2026