Our story
by Louise Kennedy, Director of Corporate Services, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council
In an initiative led by our Chief Executive, the Council fast-tracked the transformation of its systems to ensure that council services were as accessible as possible for citizens as well as being available remotely by staff.
Some of the services transformed included: waste online booking system; live broadcasting of council meetings; remote call centre; and Virtual Private Network to ensure remote access to files and systems for all staff.
The Council engaged a local supplier who provided the hardware, software, training and support required.
The Council has successfully delivered a wide range of Council meetings and forums since March 2020 and continues to do so. The technology has been warmly embraced by Elected Members, management and staff.
In an initiative led by our Chief Executive, the Council fast-tracked the transformation of its systems to ensure that council services were as accessible as possible for citizens as well as being available remotely by staff.
Some of the services transformed included: waste online booking system; live broadcasting of council meetings; remote call centre; and Virtual Private Network to ensure remote access to files and systems for all staff.
The Council engaged a local supplier who provided the hardware, software, training and support required.
The Council has successfully delivered a wide range of Council meetings and forums since March 2020 and continues to do so. The technology has been warmly embraced by Elected Members, management and staff.
Our advice
Ensure management engagement and leadership – the first group to fully embrace the new technology were the Council's Senior Management Team and Elected Members.
Thoroughly research the technology available – we tested Zoom, Teams and other video conferencing software to ensure the best fit for each different type of meeting.
Seek advice from similar organisations – we reached out to counterparts elsewhere.
Use the best breed of technology and suppliers – we were able to use a local company who not only supplied the equipment but also delivered on-site training and support.
Our metrics
Number of meetings held virtually.
Miles not travelled.
Travel cost savings.
Miles not travelled.
Travel cost savings.
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