Publication: DISAM Journal
Publication Date: 01-APR-07
Delivery: Immediate Online Access
Author: Arasan, Jayakumar
Article Excerpt
Introduction
As a result of rapid development in information technology (IT) and end-user computing, many new ideas and innovative ways of doing things are discovered every day. In the field of security assistance (SA), to cope with the workload generated by regulations and administrative processes, security assistance officers (SAOs) can employ automation systems, specifically computer programs, to increase efficiency and productivity in their office. Such automated systems are applications developed by end-users, who are the subject matter experts and know the specific outputs they desire. These applications are easily developed and used. Commonly used computer applications such as spreadsheets, word processing documents, and databases allow easy data input, storage, sharing, retrieval and manipulation. Whatever their form or level of complexity, the central question in developing these programs is, how does this application make my work easier? The Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC) Malaysia developed three automated systems to reduce redundant paperwork, store data, and track deadlines that are worthy of sharing with the security assistance community at large.
Automation Systems used in the Office of Defense Cooperation Malaysia
The ODC Malaysia developed three automated systems to assist the office's personnel in their day-to-day activities. The information collected by these applications is shared on the office's server for all to see. Why were these systems developed? They are many reasons, but the following are the key needs that drove the development of these applications:
* A need for efficient time management
* A need to reduce routine, redundant, and time consuming tasks
* Common requirements for similar information
* A need to reduce paperwork volume and data entry errors
* A need for fast retrieval of information
To tackle the problems listed above, ODC Malaysia developed the following applications:
* ODC Training Support System (OTSS)--tracks international military education and training (IMET), Counter-Terrorism Fellowship Program (CTFP), foreign military sales (FMS), and Title 10 program training and administrative requirements.
* Foreign Military Sales Tracking System (FTS) organizes case data and correspondence, tracks deadlines, and...
NOTE: All illustrations and photos have been removed from this article.
More articles from
DISAM Journal
A Future Unbound: The United States and India Relations, 01-JUL-07
A regional overview of South Asia, 01-JUL-07
The United States creates military command for Africa, 01-JUL-07
Looking for additional articles?
Click here to search our database of over 3 million articles.
Looking for more in-depth information on this industry?
Click here to search our complete database of Industry & Market reports by text, subject, publication name or publication date.
About Goliath
Whether you're looking for sales prospects, competitive information, company analysis or best practices in managing your organization, Goliath can help you meet your business needs.
Our extensive business information databases empower business professionals with both the breadth and depth of credible, authoritative information they need to support their business goals. Whether it be strategic planning, sales prospecting, company research or defining management best practices - Goliath is your leading source for accurate information. |
