Parramatta City Council commits to Windows 8.1 rollout

NSW’s Parramatta City Council has revealed it will become the first local government organisation in Australia to widely deploy Microsoft’s new Windows 8.1 operating system, which will be released on Friday.

The operating system will provide a productivity environment for the council’s 750 employees, and will be rolled out across the council’s tablets and laptops before finally being installed across its desktop PCs. Also integrated into the mix will be Windows Phone 8 based smartphones.

The council is also developing a Windows application that will let employees deliver 24/7 remote access to the council’s tools and services. In the long term, the council will build on the technology platform to introduce smart devices including 3D printers, videoconferencing tools, and mobile computing.

“The consistent experience delivered by Windows 8.1 across a range of devices was a key element in our decision to upgrade and provide employees with the tools they need to work effectively whether they’re offsite or in the office,” said Parramatta City Council Lord Mayor Cr John Chedid in a statement.

Council’s desire to mobilise its employees plays a big part in its decision to adopt the newest version of Windows at its release. The seamless mobile experience is expected to facilitate council workers’ access to a consistent user experience regardless of location or device, with tasks ranging from property inspections to community events and booking appointments while in the field.

“Technology has transformed the services local councils have been able to offer in recent years, and it is of course a critical step in continuing to improve the level of service for citizens,” Microsoft Australia public sector director Michael Gration said in a statement. “Deploying Windows 8.1 will help speed up and streamline administrative work while maximising the time spent doing practical good as part of their job.” – David Braue