Northern Territory’s Victoria Daly Regional Council has replaced its old system for data storage with a new cloud-based software package, which has been fully operational since April and boasts numerous positive reviews.
In a letter signing off on the decision to abandon Council’s old system, CouncilBiz, in favour of a new cloud-based system the Minister for Local Government, Chansey Paech, said:
“Victoria Daly Regional Council’s new cloud-based software packages were sufficient for Council’s operational and reporting requirements, and capable and robust enough to stand alone.”
Victoria Daly Regional Council Mayor, Brian Pedwell, said the decision was motivated by CouncilBiz’s unsatisfactory customer service and the added benefits of cloud based computing.
“Moving to cloud storage enables real time access to data through all devices, including mobile phones, iPads and desk computers,” Mayor Pedwell said.
“This was a move spearheaded by me and the other councillors to improve the services that run within our region.”
Imposed on all Northern Territory regional councils in 2008 by the StateGovernment, CouncilBiz hosts all users on the same server.
With so many users on the same system creating major issues for Council’s efficiency, proper training, and the use of systems in remote communities.
By transitioning to a cloud-based system, Council is now able to use individual programs and apps more flexibly and can update these programs and provide training to staff with minimal effort or cost.
The new cloud systems are scalable (users can be added or removed instantly), and software licenses are pay-as-you-go, rather than – for example – paying for a pack of 200 software licenses when council only uses 102.
Based on projections, the new system will save council an average of over $157,000 per year for the next five years.
It will also streamline business processes, is more compatible across a variety of software, creates better communication across the organisation, enhances productivity and efficiency in the way programs are used, is much more user-friendly, andmore accessible in remote regions.
Overall security of Council will also be boosted through adopting a two-factor authentication system, something that was not possible under CouncilBiz.
Mayor Pedwell said that Council and staff across the five VDRC Wards were “buzzing”.
“This move will mean Council is more in line with current and modern technology suitable for Council needs,” Mayor Pedwell said.
“We would like to extend our thanks to Minister Paech for approving our resignation from CouncilBiz.”
