New System to Cut Down Paperwork

A new system for managing people's letters, forms and other documents has been installed in North Norfolk District Council's Council Tax and Benefits Service, making whole files of information available to case officers at the touch of a button.

The Electronic Document Management (EDM) system was switched on on Monday, 30 January, and documentation received from that date will be scanned and stored electronically when people bring it to NNDC offices or send it in the post.

The system will allow quicker access to information, meaning customers' inquiries can be dealt more efficiently. It will also mean that people's important documents do not have to be retained by NNDC.

In the first few days of operation, however, there may be delays while staff adjust to the new system and while bugs are ironed out, but extra staffing resources have been allocated to the Council Tax and Benefits Service to keep disruption to a minimum. NNDC would like to apologise for any inconvenience people may experience as a result.

Alongside the installation of the new system, existing working practices have been reviewed to improve the service to customers. The new system will also help NNDC to be more consistent in its service delivery.

Councillor Peter Moore, Cabinet Member for Resources, said: "This new system has the potential to change the way we work quite radically, for the sake of our customers. It's essential in meeting people's expectations of a speedy and efficient service - the kind of service we can be proud to offer."

NOTES FOR EDITOR

• For more information, contact Louise Wolsey, Revenues and Benefits Services Manager, on 01263 516081.

ENDS