CSSWA

WHAT IS ICT (Information Communications Technology)?

ICT is an umbrella term that includes any communication device or application, encompassing: radio, television, cellular phones, computer and network hardware and software, satellite systems and so on, as well as the various services and applications associated with them, such as videoconferencing and distance learning.

In the context of how the community sector is using it, ICT can be considered as   computer hardware, software, associated equipment such as printers, scanners, digital camera’s; and anything that is used for communicating electronic information including internet access, ISP connections, and telephone services.

What IS CSS SEEKING TO DO?

CSS has developed an  ICT project whose aim is to build capacity within community service organisations (CSO's) in Western Australia.

What’s the aim of this ICT capacity building project and who benefits?

By implementing solutions that came out of the research funded by Lotterywest and conducted by CSS in 2008/9, these solutions aim to improve the capacity of organisations to deliver their services through the use of ICT.

All community service organisations across Western Australia can benefit!

WHAT SOLUTION IS THIS ICT PROJECT FOCUSSING ON AND WHY?

By 2011, community service organisations (CSO’s) operating within Western Australia will share a common awareness of costs and benefits of ICT and have access to an online information framework that enables them to make informed decisions about its benefits and use.  The project will develop an online web portal and conduct regional and metro based events, workshops, and knowledge sharing activities supported by publication materials and literature sent to non-profits.

By focussing on the online presence, the WA community sector will have state-wide access to the following:

The CSS ICT Project will provide information via following means:

• Web site that will facilitate endorsed and qualified ICT products and services directory
• Online ICT Knowledgebase including “how to’s”, FAQ’s; support information, publications, white papers, and information on ICT best practice
• Skills development via online e-learning with links to other endorsed  training offerings
• Information and best practice on current and emerging technologies
• Downloadable planning tools, cost planners and ICT resources to assist CSO’s with their ICT plans, reviews and implementations
• Online forum for CSO’s to share and exchange experiences and best practice advice
• Direct engagement with CSO’s through a series of face to face events that provide;
• ICT best practice and strategic use of ICT
• ICT workshops and training sessions
• Informative ICT news including ‘show and tell’ technology symposiums
• Access to ICT vendors, training organisations and Telecommunication companies
• Provide information on funding announcements and documents that assist CSO’s with funding application completion
• Educate and influence funders of ICT projects on the critical role and cost benefits of ICT so they can fund the TCO (total cost of ownership) of ICT