IT Upgrade Project for GIFEC

Background

The Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communication (GIFEC) plays a vital role in facilitating digital access across Ghana. With offices strategically located in 14 regions, GIFEC aims to enhance connectivity and communication within the country. However, the organization faced significant challenges that hindered its operational effectiveness and ability to serve the public efficiently.

Challenges

  1. Lack of Network Infrastructure: GIFEC had no existing network infrastructure linking its 14 regional offices to the head office in Accra. This disconnect limited effective communication and collaboration between offices.

  2. Internet Accessibility:Many regional offices were without internet access, which impeded daily operations and hindered the effectiveness of training centers crucial for staff development.

  3. Need for Video Conferencing: To facilitate better collaboration between regional and state managers while reducing travel costs, GIFEC required advanced video conferencing systems in both regional offices and the head office.

  4. Attendance Tracking:Management struggled to track staff attendance and whereabouts, leading to inefficiencies and challenges in workforce management.

Solution

Delbond Technologies was selected to implement a comprehensive IT upgrade based on our in-depth assessment, design proposal, and a series of collaborative meetings with GIFEC management and staff. Our approach involved leveraging the Peplink SD-WAN technology, using the Balance 380 and MAX Transit Pro systems to establish a robust network infrastructure.

Key Implementation Steps:

  1. Network Infrastructure: We designed and implemented a network solution that successfully connected all 14 GIFEC offices to the head office, ensuring seamless communication and data transfer. The solution included the deployment of Peplink Balance 380 routers, known for their reliability and ability to manage multiple WAN connections effectively. This router facilitates load balancing and failover capabilities, enhancing network resilience. Each regional office was equipped with Peplink MAX Transit Pro mobile routers that utilize bandwidth bonding technology, enabling the simultaneous use of multiple SIM cards from different carriers. By leveraging two SIM cards, the MAX Transit Pro creates a secure SpeedFusion VPN tunnel between the regional offices and the head office. This configuration not only ensures a stable and secure connection but also maximizes bandwidth by combining the throughput of both connections. This innovative solution greatly enhances communication and data transfer speeds, which are crucial for GIFEC’s operations.

  2. Internet Provisioning: Through the installation of reliable internet connectivity at each regional office, we enhanced operational capabilities and provided staff with the resources necessary for effective training and development. The Peplink solution enabled seamless failover and load balancing, ensuring that even if one network connection experienced issues, the others would maintain the internet access required for uninterrupted operations. This design supports the dynamic needs of GIFEC, particularly in training environments where consistent internet access is critical.

  3. Video Conferencing: State-of-the-art video conferencing equipment was deployed in both regional offices and the head office, significantly improving communication and collaboration while minimizing the need for costly travel to Accra.

  4. Attendance Tracking System: To address the management's concerns regarding staff attendance, we integrated a comprehensive time and attendance system using ZKTeco biometric devices installed at all regional offices, linked to a central server at the head office running BioTime 8 software. This robust system allows for real-time tracking of staff attendance and whereabouts. Additionally, we deployed a mobile app that enables staff to clock in from the field, recording the date, time, and GPS locations of their clock-ins and outs. This functionality enhances the visibility of staff location and attendance, ensuring accurate records for management.

Installation Challenges

Despite the obstacles posed by bad, dusty, and pothole-riddled roads, torrential rains, and the challenge of locating the regional offices, the Delbond Technologies team of engineers demonstrated remarkable efficiency and dedication. During the installation period, many staff members were out of the office, yet our team successfully deployed the systems, conducted testing, and trained the staff on system usage within just 14 days nationwide. This commitment to excellence and ability to adapt to challenging conditions is a testament to our reputation as a trusted partner in technology solutions.

Results

The IT upgrade project delivered tangible benefits to GIFEC, including:

  • Improved Connectivity: With all regional offices linked to the head office, GIFEC now enjoys enhanced communication and operational efficiency.

  • Enhanced Internet Access: Staff across all regions can access critical online resources, facilitating improved service delivery and training capabilities.

  • Cost Savings: The introduction of video conferencing has significantly reduced travel costs and time, allowing managers to conduct meetings more efficiently.

  • Effective Workforce Management: The new attendance tracking system, enhanced by ZKTeco devices and the BioTime 8 software, has improved accountability and transparency within the organization.

Conclusion

Delbond Technologies is proud to have partnered with GIFEC to deliver a transformative IT upgrade that addresses their challenges and enhances their ability to serve the public. Our commitment to excellence, innovative solutions, and dedication to overcoming obstacles ensure that organizations like GIFEC can trust us to deliver results that matter.