Why an LMS tender?
UT is starting a formal tender for its Learning Management System (LMS). This is something we are legally required to do under European and Dutch procurement rules. For large and long-term contracts like an LMS, universities must periodically run a tender, even if the current system works well. That means UT has to look at what is available on the market and compare solutions. Our current LMS, Canvas, is part of this tender. It’s important to stress that starting a tender does not automatically mean we are changing systems.
Goal of the tender
UT must comply with procurement law. The outcome of the tender will tell us whether we continue with Canvas or move to another LMS. At this point, both outcomes are possible.
Canvas is currently used across UT and will be invited to participate in the tender. If Canvas is selected again, we will continue working with it and no major changes are expected for staff or students. If another supplier is selected, UT will move to a new LMS. In that case, the transition will be carefully planned and supported. For now, nothing changes. You can continue working in Canvas as you always have. There is no action required from staff at this stage.
Join the Sounding board (klankbordgroep)
To make sure the perspectives of users are well represented, we are setting up a sounding board. This board consists of teaching staff, educational support staff and students who think along during the tender process. As a member of the souding board, you may be asked to look at requirements, join demo sessions, or give feedback on usability and educational support. Participation is voluntary and clearly scoped. We aim to keep the time investment reasonable and meaningful.
How is the tender organised?
The tender follows a number of clearly defined phases. Because this is a formal procurement process, there are moments when we are limited in what we can share. We will always communicate where we are in the process, what the next step is, and when more information can be expected. The project is guided by a steering group and a project group, and supported by a sounding board (klankbordgroep). Two colleagues from the faculties are involved as faculty representatives. Students are also actively involved at different moments in the trajectory.