In the municipal sector, keeping up with frequent software updates that connect different departments and public schools to city or town services is a constant challenge. Since the early 1980s, there were very few software options available for tracking public sector payments. Over the decades, new and updated products have been developed to streamline processes that were traditionally handled manually, such as property tax collection, utility payments, parking fines, and other municipal revenue management.
Today, many communities have expanded their use of software applications to include Human Resources, the Assessor’s Office, Payroll, Procurement, online permitting, and more. However, this enhanced suite of software products does not come without challenges.
At Capital Strategic Solutions, we understand these challenges firsthand. Despite these obstacles, many communities find that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, leading to improved efficiency and data management. The use of shared drives, shared calendars, online permitting, and social media platforms has become the new norm but often brings its own set of issues:
Software Glitches
These can cause incorrect financial reporting, such as payroll overpayments or calculation issues with personal property taxes. Such problems can lead to significant delays and may require technical assistance from the software provider.
Customization
Although many software applications offer a range of modules, some municipalities may find they need custom solutions to meet their specific departmental needs.
Training and User Adoption
It is vital to ensure that all employees are adequately trained on how to use new software. Do you have up-to-date training materials for the modules you are currently using? A lack of proper training can hinder effective use of the system.
While working with communities across the Commonwealth, our staff has consistently encountered various software challenges that can create a negative domino effect in city or town halls. These software breakdowns don’t just affect internal processes—they can delay services to residents, increase audit risks, and impact public trust. If your department is struggling with integrating software programs and has limited resources to resolve these issues, Capital Strategic Solutions can provide a dedicated point person to work with your software vendor and assist you in navigating your software challenges.
Capital Strategic Solutions distinguishes itself through its extensive experience with municipal operations. The focus is on not only resolving software issues but also collaborating with staff to enhance systems for operational efficiency. If you’re interested in discussing the current systems in your town, give us a call at 508-690-0046 or email us [email protected] to schedule a consultation for an objective assessment—no commitment is required.