Brandon University’s Failed ERP Project Sparks Call for Oversight

Brandon University’s (BU) recent review of its failed $5-million Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) project emphasizes the need for enhanced oversight in future initiatives within post-secondary institutions. Manitoba’s Advanced Education Minister, Renée Cable, stated that the findings should guide stronger governance practices moving forward.

The university received a consultant’s report from BDO Canada, which identified several critical issues that led to the failure of the ERP project. The report pointed to flawed software selection, inadequate vendor assessment, and weak governance as key factors contributing to the collapse. Despite the significant investment, the project was officially halted in early 2024, leaving the institution without a functional system.

Minister Cable reiterated that while the province will not directly interfere in BU’s operations, it is committed to strengthening the oversight role of university boards. “From day one, we’ve respected the autonomy of our institutions,” Cable remarked. “Engaging a third-party review was necessary to ensure transparency and accountability.”

The ERP project was launched in 2020 under the “Renew BU” initiative, aiming to modernize outdated systems that dated back to 1978. After four years of development and substantial expenditure, the project fell short of its intended goals. Students are still subject to “Renew BU fees,” which are expected to partially fund the now-defunct project. For the 2024-25 academic year, the fee is set at $35.70.

Grant Hamilton, a spokesperson for Brandon University, addressed concerns regarding the fee’s purpose. “There are a couple of misconceptions. Firstly, students do not pay secret fees,” Hamilton explained. “The ‘Renew BU’ fee has always been public since its inception in January 2020.” He noted that the fee helps cover ongoing operational costs and other associated expenses related to the ERP project.

Despite the project’s shortcomings, Hamilton highlighted that there have been some positive technological upgrades, including new software implementations and significant updates to stabilize the legacy system. He emphasized that it is common for students to contribute fees for future improvements, which ultimately benefit current students.

The president of the Brandon University Students’ Union, Charles Adamu, did not provide comments on the situation. Meanwhile, Minister Cable expressed optimism for the university’s future leadership under incoming president Christine Cnossen, who is expected to assume office this month. “It’s an exciting time for Brandon University and for students in Westman,” she stated.

As the government focuses on improving oversight and ensuring proper management of public funds, it is clear that the lessons learned from the ERP project will play a crucial role in guiding future initiatives within Manitoba’s educational landscape.