Ontario Universities are Working Faster, Cheaper and Smarter to Improve Efficiency

Ontario universities are saving millions of dollars by sharing resources and using innovative technologies that improve efficiency for the benefit of students, according to a new report released by the Council of Ontario Universities (COU).

The report, Faster, Cheaper, Smarter: Improving Efficiency at Ontario Universities, highlights what universities are doing to become leaner, greener and more efficient in their operations. The report will be released at a forum hosted today by COU that will explore administrative and financial efficiencies and share best practices, not just in universities, but in all of the broader public sector.

“This is an excellent example of how Ontario’s universities regard efficiency and value-for-money as critical to their operations” says Patrick Deane, Chair of COU and President of McMaster University.  “Universities are leaders in finding innovative approaches to efficiency and in realizing savings that improve their effectiveness overall.”

The Ontario government’s $47.5 million investment through the Productivity and Innovation Fund has supported innovation and modernization in Ontario’s universities.

By implementing new and modern technologies, and partnering with other organizations, universities are able to eliminate many time-consuming steps and increase their response times to institutional processes. Some examples include better document management, increased safety, and developing a more sustainable campus. Partnerships are with both private and public sector organizations.

“This report shows Ontario universities at their best: innovating and pushing boundaries,” says Bonnie M. Patterson, President and CEO of COU.

“By working together with other institutions and businesses, universities benefit from cost efficiencies created from economies of scale and joint purchasing, and they’re helping students prepare for the real world through simulation based technology.”

The forum, at which the report will be presented, will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in West Hall at University College (University of Toronto). Keynote speakers include Steve Orsini, Ontario’s Secretary of the Cabinet, and William Charnetski, the province’s Chief Health Innovation Strategist.

To view the full report, click here.
To view the infographic, click here.