SSS set to complete P20-M computerization project
By Lawrence Casiraya
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 09:27pm (Mla time) 10/20/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Social Security System (SSS) expects to complete by yearend its P20 million information system project, which would be vital to the agency's "business decisions," according to its chief IT executive.
SSS announced it has contracted the project multinational IT services provider Headstrong and local system integrator Total Information Management Corporation Corp. (TIM) to enhance its information engineering systems.
The P20-million project specifically involves the development of information architecture, business systems architecture and technical architecture, according to Raymond Lacdao, Headstrong Philippines managing consultant.
"Information engineering is really business-driven," he explained. "It's basically about getting the right information to the right people at the right time. This is especially crucial for an organization like SSS which delivers critical frontline financial services to Filipinos."
SSS said the six-month project will be completed in December.
"This initiative will enable us to assess our current strategies and policies, outline our business requirements, and complete our information strategy," said Miguel Roca Jr., senior vice president and head of the agency's Information Technology Management Group.
He added: "Our objective is to leverage best practice and leading technology to enhance our service standards."
Headstrong and TIM are fielding a team of business analysts, systems analysts, and technical specialists to work with the agency's user reference group and current system experts to complete the project.
"Through information strategy planning, we can assist SSS in developing systems supportive of its strategic objectives as well as its operations processes," Lacdao added.
"The IE project will facilitate our systems development and maintenance; promote data sharing and integration of applications. More importantly, it will guide our business decisions," Roca said.
SSS is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. From January to June this year, SSS reported it has paid out over P 28.79 billion in benefits to some 1.63 million members and their beneficiaries.