INTEGRATING PUBLIC AGENCIES AND MOVING TOWARDS A NETWORKED GOVERNMENT



When Singaporeans go to a neighbourhood police post to update their change of address, all public sector agencies are automatically informed of the change. This is an example of interoperability where different agencies are in sync and their systems can "talk" (i.e., are compatible with) to one another.

The reality, however, is not always so convenient. Often, these agencies have implemented their own ICT systems at different times, using different platforms, hardware and software. Even within a particular agency, there exist certain complexities that prevent systems from being compatible with one another.

Standards for consistent and compatible IT systems
What is needed then is a set of standards and guidelines that will ensure compatibility among the various ICT systems. This is where SWTA comes in. SWTA is the acronym for Service-Wide Technical Architecture. It is a set of principles, standards and guidelines to guide public sector agencies in the design, acquisition, implementation and management of ICT systems. This common set of principles and standards will provide a mutual framework for information sharing and interoperability of systems amongst all agencies. In a nutshell, the SWTA was developed to better facilitate information sharing across agencies.

Why a Service-Wide Technical Architecture?
With the adoption of a common technical architecture, public sector agencies can look forward to easier integration of their ICT systems and greater interoperability as a result of sharing a set of common standards. Agencies too can look forward to enjoying economies of scale through the procurement of compliant products through period tenders.

Benefits to the public
The convenience of information sharing is one such practical outcome of standardisation across all agencies' ICT systems. In using the SWTA framework, government agencies move a step closer to realising the e-Government vision of "Many Agencies, One Government" and becoming a Networked Government. What this means to the average man on the street is greater efficiency when it comes to updating information, applying for licences etc. It will probably mean that one does not have to run from one government agency counter to another for various services such as application for licenses and payment of taxes. The end result: better customer service.

These massive efforts to synchronize systems interaction across agencies have the common objective of serving all Singaporeans and residents better. By leveraging on the common technology platform recommended in the SWTA , seamless information access across agencies is now a dream come true.

For more information, please visit: http://www.egov.gov.sg/networked_govt_services.htm