Baltimore County, Maryland, January 1, 2026
An investigation by the Baltimore County Inspector General uncovered that the county wasted over $737,000 on the PRiSM software, which was never properly utilized. Intended to monitor contracts and ensure compliance with Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) goals, the software faced technical issues that rendered it ineffective. The county is now working on integrating the system and enhancing oversight.
Baltimore County Wasted Over $737K on Unused Software, Inspector General Finds
Baltimore County, Maryland – An investigation by the county’s Inspector General has revealed that Baltimore County spent more than $737,000 on a software system that was never properly utilized. The software, known as PRiSM, was intended to help the county monitor contracts and ensure compliance with Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) goals. However, technical issues prevented its effective use, leading to significant taxpayer money being wasted.
Details of the Investigation
The Office of the Inspector General, led by Inspector General Kelly Madigan, conducted a thorough review of the MBE unit’s operations. The investigation found that from 2008 to 2025, the county invested over $737,000 in the PRiSM software. Despite this substantial investment, the software faced compatibility issues, particularly with the county’s existing system, Workday. These technical challenges rendered the software ineffective for its intended purpose, which was to monitor and enforce MBE compliance on county contracts.
Implications and Responses
The inability to properly utilize the PRiSM software meant that the county could not effectively track whether contractors were meeting MBE hiring goals. This oversight has raised concerns about the county’s commitment to supporting minority-owned businesses and ensuring fair contracting practices. In response to the findings, County Administrative Officer D’Andrea Walker acknowledged the issues and stated that efforts are underway to fully integrate the software system. Additionally, the MBE unit has been moved back under the Office of Budget and Finance to improve oversight and accountability.
Background Context
The PRiSM software was initially implemented with the goal of enhancing the county’s ability to monitor and enforce MBE compliance on contracts. However, due to technical difficulties and integration challenges with existing systems, the software failed to deliver its intended benefits. The Inspector General’s report highlights the need for better planning and oversight in the procurement and implementation of software solutions to prevent such inefficiencies in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is PRiSM software?
PRiSM is a software system intended to help Baltimore County monitor contracts and ensure compliance with Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) goals.
How much did Baltimore County spend on PRiSM software?
Baltimore County invested over $737,000 in the PRiSM software system from 2008 to 2025.
Why was the PRiSM software not used effectively?
The software faced technical issues, particularly compatibility problems with the county’s existing system, Workday, rendering it ineffective for its intended purpose.
What actions is the county taking in response to the Inspector General’s findings?
The county is working to fully integrate the PRiSM software system and has moved the MBE unit back under the Office of Budget and Finance to improve oversight and accountability.
What is the significance of the Inspector General’s report?
The report underscores the need for better planning and oversight in the procurement and implementation of software solutions to prevent inefficiencies and ensure taxpayer money is used effectively.
Key Features of the PRiSM Software Issue
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Software Name | PRiSM |
| Intended Purpose | Monitor contracts and ensure MBE compliance |
| Total Investment | Over $737,000 |
| Timeframe of Investment | 2008 to 2025 |
| Primary Issue | Technical difficulties and system compatibility problems |
| County’s Response | Efforts to fully integrate the software and reassign MBE unit oversight |
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