City’s Information Technology Master Plan – Enabling an Engaged & Connected City

Today, at General Committee, Mississauga City Council endorsed the City’s Information Technology (IT) Master Plan to guide future improvements to services through the use of technology.

“The City has established itself as a leader in the use of technology to engage citizens and deliver services through innovation and partnerships,” said Shawn Slack, Director IT. “Through the IT Master Plan process, a whole new set of inspiring possibilities has been established forming a new and exciting vision for the future. This plan ensures the City is using technology and resources strategically to efficiently deliver the best service possible.”

Slack explained that the IT Master Plan was developed with staff and technology industry experts for insights into where the technology industry is headed and how it can be used at the City.  The plan sets strategies and objectives for the next three to five years. Each City service area will identify how technology can enhance operations. “This process is integrated into the City’s annual Business Planning and Budget process to ensure transparency and alignment across the City.”

“Service area technology road maps will inform the business planning process on the types of investments in technology that will be proposed and the benefits that will improve customer service and drive efficiencies,” said Gary Kent, Commissioner of Corporate Services.

Four key strategies are in the plan based on research and benchmarking:

Foster Open and Accessible Government – Use technology to enable easy and convenient access to services and information, host an Open Data hackathon in 2016, implement the Digital Strategy and make mobile access the primary channel.

Enable Decisions Through Research and Analytics – Develop a Big Data framework that enables analytics, dashboards and data visualizations providing timely and relevant management information to enable decisions.

Create a Connected and Engaged Workplace – Connect services and collect information through sensors and connected devices by implementing Smart City initiatives that will allow the City to better manage services with visibility on how they are performing and the ability to affect changes on services in real time.

Improve Services Through Innovation and Partnerships – Provide opportunity and access to technology in the community that spark innovation and partnerships to provide and enhance services.

For more information about the IT Master Plan and how it will improve City services and operations please read: IT Master Plan.