IBS OPENSystems signed a contract with United Welsh Housing Association to provide the Association with its OPENHousing, OPENFinancials, and OPENMobile software, to streamline document management and workflow processes.
The software will go live in April 2008 and generate efficiency gains across United Welsh's housing operations. It will provide the 125 members of staff with a variety of enhancements, from communication methods with customers and contractors to superior streamlining of document management and workflow.
United Welsh is one of Wales' leading housing associations. It provides housing services to over 3,600 properties. The Association also provides accommodation for older people through its Living+ scheme and for individuals with additional support needs.
Staff based in the office are not the only ones to benefit from IBS' software. The implementation of OPENMobile will benefit workers out in the field too. The OPENMobile modules enable organisations to manage work and repairs on properties more efficiently. Housing staff can access and retrieve core data from any system using a handheld computer such as a personal digital assistant (PDA) while on the move.
Using OPENMobile, housing staff can also update the relevant systems as they work. For example, when undertaking repair work, staff need not return to the office to update records - it can be done in real-time.
IBS OPENSystems also signed an agreement with Trafford Council, to provide a set of online benefits application forms.
Working with business partner, IEG4 Limited, the forms will enable local residents and agencies to apply for Housing and Council Tax Benefit and report changes in circumstances electronically. IBS is providing an interface for the application form to populate claim details directly into the processing system.
The online application will help the Council improve customer service and generate efficiency savings. It will eventually replace all hard copy forms and let the Council reduce the time spent re-keying claimant information. At the moment it takes 25 days for Trafford Council to process claims.
The application was originally developed by IEG4 for Lewisham Council, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council.