Local Government is abuzz with things going on. There are meetings, festivals and activities across all areas. It is almost impossible for anyone to keep abreast of this constant whirl of activity. The online corporate calendar at Redland Shire Council in Queensland, called WhatsOn, is an important communications tool that aids in planning and is coordinating corporate events, and a central database of events relevant to all staff.
An extensive online tutorial highlights the calendar’s capabilities, supported by technical and content help to resolve any potential issues. Staff can subscribe to categories in WhatsOn that interest them. Any new activities and events subscribed to will immediately and automatically be forwarded to the subscriber through email.
WhatsOn has a searchable listing easily accessible to all staff, containing up to date information in a simple and clear format. It is a planning and coordination tool, a database of key events, projects and meetings and a listing of events and activities, each with a clear display of purpose, timeframe, staff involved and audience.
It is an innovative as well as a cost effective tool that reduces doubling up. Introducing the new system required extensive modification, but low cost customising of an off-the-shelf third party web application software.
WhatsOn was made available initially through an icon on the desktop accessible to all staff. It was then successfully migrated to the new intranet in July 2003. The next phase is the development of an annual business cycle calendar and the migration of WhatsOn to Council’s web site so that the community can also access it.
For further information contact Joanne Costin, Project Coordinator, on (07) 3829 8999.
