Information Technology
The LCSD makes extensive use of Information Technology to deliver services to the public. In 2010-11, the Department commissioned 21 computerisation projects with a total cost of $36 million to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.
Computerisation of Public Libraries
The Library Automation System (LAS) provides automated library services, including acquisition and cataloguing support for internal library operation, library material circulation and public access to the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC). In January 2010, a contract was awarded to replace the system. The design for Phase 1 system rollout to replace the existing system was completed in December 2010. Software development and testing is underway.
Furthermore, a pilot scheme to install Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology in a number of branch libraries will be implemented to assess the impact and benefits to the public and internal library operation. We are aiming to launch the service of Phase 1 and RFID pilot in 2011.
Design and implementation of Phase 2 for planned new services will commence in 2012.
The Multimedia Information System (MMIS) is a digital library system that allows patrons to search and gain instant access to digitised documents and digital and analogue audio and video material in the Hong Kong Central Library and 27 branch libraries. The system has been in place for nine years, and a feasibility study was carried out in July 2008 to ascertain the public's needs and propose feasible solutions for a system upgrade. The Department sought funding approval from the Legislative Council in early 2009 for a major system upgrade, and tendering activities are in progress.
Over 1 700 Internet-enabled computer workstations were installed in libraries for public use. To meet the increased demand for speedy access to the Internet, the infrastructure and 345 workstations have been upgraded.
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Leisure Link System
The Leisure Link System (LLS) enables the public to book leisure facilities and enrol in recreational and sports activities through different channels, including counters, the Internet, self-service kiosks and by phone.
The following three major enhancements were completed during the year under review:
- In April 2010, the system was enhanced to enable the setting of booking priority of facilities in multi-purpose venues.
- In August 2010, the system was enhanced to support free booking service for 'Sport For All Day'.
- In December 2010, the system was enhanced to handle miscellaneous payments for booking of equipment, sale of monthly tickets for gymnasiums, etc.
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Urban Ticketing System (URBTIX)
URBTIX, which has served the public and the hirers of LCSD performance venues since 1984, is Hong Kong's leading ticketing system. It serves 43 performing arts venues with an aggregate seating capacity of more than 100 000. At present, there are 42 URBTIX ticketing outlets territory-wide.
In 2010, the system was enhanced to support the deployment of ticket dispensing machines at 15 LCSD performance venues and the acceptance of China Unionpay card for payment at URBTIX outlets. A capacity review was also conducted in the year to identify technical requirements of the URBTIX system to cater for new needs of the market and the performing arts sector. The findings will serve as a reference for future development of URBTIX services.
Hong Kong Archaeological Archives System
A Hong Kong Archaeological Archives System is being developed to digitise data on artefacts discovered at archaeological sites in the Hong Kong SAR. Photos, drawings and interactive 3D models of selected items will be made accessible to the public via the Internet for research and education purposes. The system design has been completed and it will be launched by end 2011.
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Direct Purchase Authority Management System
Phase II
The Direct Purchase Authority Management System (DPAS) was launched in April 2006 to facilitate the Department’s procurement functions under Direct Purchase Authority, including requisitions, supplier selection, quotation invitations, recommendations, approval and placing purchase orders. Over the years, we have identified enhancements to cater for new business needs and further streamline business operations. Design and implementation of Phase II of DPAS commenced in 2009. Some Phase II functions related to refined authority delegation, use of Purchasing Card and selection of suppliers were rolled out in 2010. The remaining functions will be implemented in 2011.
Projects in Progress
- Backend servers of the Leisure Link System will be upgraded and frontend workstations replaced. The project will be completed in 2013.
- A feasibility study is being conducted on the future development of the URBTIX ticketing system to identify a viable business ticketing model and supporting computerised solution that best meet the expectations of event organisers and the public. The study will be completed in 2011.
- A Film Archive Management System (FAMS) is being developed to replace the existing system and improve the management of films and related items of the Hong Kong Film Archive (HKFA). The new system will enable people to search the online catalogue on the Internet. It will also provide more business and library related functions to streamline the HKFA’s business operation. The new system will be ready in 2012.
- A system is being developed to support the management and administration of the Sports Subvention Scheme. The first phase will be ready by end 2011 to support internal operation. The second phase, offering services to sports organisations through the Internet, will be introduced in 2012.
- The Virtual Reality Touring Programme for King Yin Lei is being developed. Through Virtual Reality Touring, computer graphic and 3D animation technology, the system aims to introduce the restoration works of King Yin Lei to educate the public about our heritage. It will be ready in 2012.
- A Contract Staff Payroll System (CSPS) is being developed to replace the existing one to better manage contract staff payroll. The new system will be ready in 2011.
- The use of Octopus card for revenue collection will be extended to museums, libraries and the Flower Show to simplify the collection process and cut queuing time. To be rolled out in phases from 2012, the project will be completed in 2013.
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