TGA strategic information planning project

The Strategic Information Planning Project (SIPP) was established in October 1997 to examine the TGA corporate information needs from a whole-of-organisation perspective and to support the move to 100% cost recovery. The result of this project was a blueprint for a Strategic Information Management Environment (SIME) where information is strategically shared and managed as a corporate resource. SIME establishes a framework where information is recorded once, shared across the organisation and able to be reported on flexibly. In addition SIME also establishes a base for electronic commerce and electronic lodgement of data packages in support of applications for entry of products onto the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).

In December 1998 a Request for Tender was released for the development of the first phase of the SIME. This phase is a redevelopment and consolidation of the TGA core business systems and includes the development of a facility for online electronic lodgement of listed products. It will also include online access to information contained on the ARTG and the Adverse Drug Reactions Database.

Dialog Information Technology was selected to work with the TGA in the development of the new environment. Dialog Information Technology is a wholly Australian owned company with extensive experience in developing applications similar to those needed by the TGA.

Development of the modules required for the SIME commenced in June 1999 and will continue until December 2001, with phased delivery of the modules across this period. The consultations with relevant industry and health professional stakeholders that commenced in the SIPP project will continue throughout the development of the SIME.

The SIME will provide TGA with faster access to accurate, timely information and will provide a more efficient method of information collection. TGA's clients will benefit through the ability to provide information to the TGA electronically, access appropriate information electronically and through more efficient reporting and tracking of applications.

We will keep you updated in future issues of the TGA News on progress of the project and how you can be involved.