The
multiple benefits of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) tools and
applications have manifested in Nigeria with the deployment of Skype video by
the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA).
The move, it was
gathered, was part of the agency's commitment to excellent customer relations
and service delivery. With the introduction of Skype video, LASAA said it would
set the record as perhaps the first industry regulator in Africa to deploy the
interactive medium to enhance engagement with its diverse stakeholders.
With the
deployment of Skype video, coupled with intensive training of LASAA staff
members in the human resources, client services and business development
departments, the agency said members of its staff were fully prepared to handle
of the Skype application.
The Skype video
application will among other things ensure quick response time to enquiries
from LASAA stakeholders, thereby making service delivery more effective and
efficient.
Skype allows
users to communicate with individuals by voice, video, and instant messaging
over the Internet. The service has almost 700 million
registered users across the world. In Nigeria, it is estimated
that over one million persons use the service mainly for personal
communication, but LASAA said it would adapt it as part of efforts to improve
its relations with its stakeholders including outdoor practitioners, customers,
prospects as well as institutions.
Commenting
on this new initiative, the Managing Director of LASAA, Mr. George Noah, said
"Skype video application demonstrates the agency's commitment to the
provision of value-addition services, and stakeholders' satisfaction and
positive experience. We are most delighted at the launch of this service
because it aligns with our commitment to continuously offer our stakeholders
opportunity to connect with us freely. We are convinced that with Skype,
engagement at both ends will be quicker and faster."
He disclosed that
the Skype video application had been well received in a pre-test exercise
conducted among randomly picked stakeholders.
"The trials
of Skype video which we conducted among some customers were successful and we
are happy to announce the deployment of the service. As a forward-looking and
innovative organisation, we will continue to employ new innovations that can
improve service delivery for all our stakeholders," Noah said, adding that
part of the sustainability plan for LASAA is a proposed outdoor master plan
which will be unveiled soon.
By
Emma Okonji
THISDAY
Nigeria