Shetland Island Council Try Paperless

Lack of technical know-how and unreliable internet connection seen as the two biggest obstacles to Shetland Islands Council’s plans to go paperless.

18:57 21 June 2018

Shetland Island Council is looking for ways to reduce the amount of paper it uses by taking advantage of digital technology. It is part of their ongoing business transformation programme in a bid to save money and help the environment. As part of their plans, councillors are advised to use digital files that can be shared, accessed and edited instead of printing them.  

 

On Monday, a number of issues have been raised, including a lack of training on how to use electronic devices to their full potential and unreliable internet connection.

 

South end member George Smith said that he needed help from younger colleagues to access digital papers. He added that a poor internet connection at his home in Sandwick is also a huge issue.

 

Westside member Theo Smith said that more guidance should be offered to councillors to ensure the success of the project. He explained: "We have IT equipment, state of the art equipment, which we don't know how to use to its full potential.”

 

Meanwhile, director of corporate services Christine Ferguson said that the lack of technical skills can be resolved with drop-in sessions with IT staff, who can help councillors who are struggling with technology.