How Can BBMP Improve Awareness and Utilization of Their Online Applications?
By Amrita Singh: The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) had launched a total of 58 online portals and applications aimed at streamlining office functions and providing services to citizens. However, recent data reveals that many of these applications are either defunct or unknown to both the public and the IT Cell of BBMP.
Current State of Affairs
According to information exclusively accessed by DH, many departments within BBMP have outsourced the management of these applications to third-party companies without consulting the IT Cell. As a result, the IT Cell is now conducting a survey to assess the status of all these applications.
“The applications were not routed through the IT Cell, and hence we are unaware of the status of many applications. We are now trying to collect information from every department,” noted a senior official from BBMP’s IT Cell. Of the 58 applications, sources indicate that at least 10-15 are not functioning.
Citizen Awareness and Usage
A significant number of these applications were designed to provide citizen-centric services. Unfortunately, except for Sahaaya 2.0, an application allowing citizens to file complaints, other apps have yet to gain traction among the public.
Abhay Kumar, a resident of Mahadevapura, shared his experience: “The officials are quick to announce and launch applications aimed at providing services. Over the years, we’ve seen apps for addressing potholes, waste collection, and more. Except for Sahaaya, nothing else has been helpful. Even Sahaaya doesn’t completely resolve issues.”
Solid Waste Management Concerns
The Solid Waste Management (SWM) department alone has over 10 applications, but the status of many remains unknown. Citizens have voiced concerns that none of these applications have effectively improved the waste management system, which continues to face numerous challenges.
“Many of the applications were commissioned years ago. Though we are not sure if all are being used, we utilize many for office purposes like tracking tippers and RFID recognition,” a senior official from the SWM department remarked.
Steps to Boost Awareness and Utilization
1. Centralized Information Hub
The first step toward improvement is creating a centralized online hub where all applications are listed, along with their functionalities and usage instructions. This platform should be easily accessible and regularly updated. This would allow citizens to find and use relevant applications in one place.
2. Collaborative Development
It’s vital to involve the IT Cell in the development and commissioning of applications. A streamlined approach ensures that all applications align with the overarching digital strategy and standards of BBMP. The IT Cell’s involvement will also facilitate more straightforward troubleshooting and updates as needed.
3. Public Awareness Campaigns
Social Media and Advertising:
- Utilizing platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to post regular updates about available applications can reach a broad audience.
- Paid advertising in local newspapers, radio, and online can further boost visibility.
Workshops and Community Meetings:
- Organizing community meetings and workshops to demonstrate how to use these applications can be highly beneficial, especially for less tech-savvy individuals.
4. Feedback Mechanism
Creating a robust feedback mechanism allows users to report issues and suggests improvements. This feedback can guide future updates and development, ensuring that applications meet the actual needs of citizens.
5. Performance Metrics
Tracking the usage and performance of each application through analytics can provide insights into their effectiveness. Regularly reviewing these metrics will help BBMP identify which applications are useful and which need improvements or deactivation.
Looking Forward
The BBMP’s goal of using technology to streamline services is commendable. However, the lack of awareness and proper management has hindered its success. By implementing these steps, BBMP can not only improve the visibility and usability of their applications but also enhance the quality of services provided to the citizens of Bengaluru.
With a more coordinated approach, the dream of a smart and efficient Bengaluru can become a reality.
Mehek