Gov’t moves to improve efficiency of MSMEs

KINGSTON — The Government is moving to improve the operational efficiency of Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), by providing them with improved access to information technology.

The move will be carried out under the Centralized Information Technology (IT) System project for which a sum of $18 million has been allocated in the 2011/12 Estimates of Expenditure, now before the House of Representatives.

The initiative, which got underway this month, involves modification and/or upgrading of existing software to meet the needs of targeted MSMEs; sensitising enterprises to the benefits of the Centralized IT system; and conducting training on its use.

Funded by the Government of Jamaica and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the project is being implemented by the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce.

Anticipated targets for the fiscal year include: modification  and/or upgrading of existing software to meet the needs of targeted MSMEs; training of 150 MSME operators and 10 trainers in the use of the Centralized IT system; and improving operational efficiency and customer service in 200 MSME’s as a result of their use of the system.

Physical achievements to date include: preparation of project proposal and negotiation of financing agreement with the IDB.

The project is expected to be completed in March 2012.

By CHRIS PATTERSON, JIS Reporter