In a major move to modernize public sector operations, the Government of Saint Lucia has officially launched InfoCloud Suite, a state-of-the-art, cloud-based financial management system. This transformative platform is set to streamline government transactions, boost efficiency, and fortify cybersecurity marking a significant milestone in Saint Lucia’s journey toward digital transformation.

Following months of meticulous preparation, the Accountant General’s Department has begun full implementation of InfoCloud Suite. Replacing the legacy SmartStream platform, this new system introduces advanced capabilities such as real-time interactions with government vendors, seamless processing of purchase orders, and sophisticated reporting features powered by modern analytics and artificial intelligence.

“We are committed to making government financial services more efficient,” stated Matthew Brandford, Accountant General. “By leveraging new technologies, we are not only aligning with global standards but also ensuring our information is more accessible and actionable. Our goal is to expedite payments to government vendors and execute programs more effectively.”

The shift to a web-based platform now allows authorized government officers secure access to the system from anywhere in the world, eliminating previous limitations such as VPN requirements  a constraint felt acutely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This is no longer a constraint,” Brandford added. “Whether on island or overseas, our teams can work just as efficiently as if they were in the office.”

Security remains a top priority with InfoCloud Suite. Supported by Amazon Web Services (AWS), the system incorporates world-class cybersecurity protocols. According to Mervyn Alexis, Senior Systems and Database Administrator at Government Information Technology Services (GITS), extensive upgrades were made to the government’s infrastructure to facilitate this transition.

“We undertook significant enhancements to our network, domain systems, and authentication processes,” Alexis explained. “We now operate on a robust system built to serve us well into the future.”

As part of the rollout, comprehensive user training is underway to familiarize government personnel with enhanced cybersecurity practices, including complex password management and recognizing potential cyber threats. For young professionals, the platform offers not only improved functionality but also a more intuitive, user-friendly interface.

“One of the great advantages of InfoCloud Suite is its web-based nature,” shared Nakia Mathurin of the Accountant General’s Department. “It’s more familiar and easier to use, especially for new entrants into government service.”

With InfoCloud Suite, the Government of Saint Lucia is reaffirming its commitment to efficiency, transparency, and service excellence. As the system becomes fully operational, citizens and vendors alike can anticipate faster processing times and increased clarity in the management of public finances.