NEPA digitising records to improve efficiency

  KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) has commenced a digital transformation process expected to significantly improve operational efficiency. This was disclosed by Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation, Ambassador Audrey Marks. “We expect that in another, maximum, two weeks, we should be able to share with Jamaica that NEPA has achieved… digitisation that has not been seen before, where all the backlog… going back to the town and planning days, maybe over 60 years, will be cleared,” she outlined. The minister was speaking during NEPA’s World Town Planning Day Forum, held at the AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston on Wednesday. Marks reported that the process, which commenced approximately two weeks ago, involves transitioning entire rooms of physical files to cloud-based servers. She noted that a key element of the digital transformation is end-to-end integrated processing, ensuring applicants experience predictable approval turnarounds. The minister affirmed that the undertaking will demonstrate the transformative potential of efficient digitisation. “This initiative is examining better integration of existing systems and options, also for electronic signatures and payments. They point towards making sure fewer obstacles stand between citizens and investors, more transparent procedures, and stronger protection of public information,” she stated. Marks maintained that digitising the system will also enhance overall accountability. “You can see where your applications are, and you can also see the movement, and there will be accountability for lack of movement. So, I am very pleased to be involved in this process as Minister of Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation,” she stated. The minister emphasised that digitisation provides an effective framework for reform, performance measurement, stakeholder engagement, iterative testing, and evaluating success based on public service delivery. — JIS