The article presents the systems of automation of the paper-based formation of documents on academic disciplines and practices used by various Russian universities. The systems' main advantages and disadvantages are identified. The analysis made it possible to single out four currently relevant approaches to automating the formation of documents. On the basis of the results of an expert survey of lecturers of the Southern Federal University, an approach was determined that was recommended for its further implementation at the university.

Keywords: university, documents' formation, university document management, software component, paperless documents' formation, university management activities