Microsoft showcases solutions for government and public sector at Bahrain International e-Government Forum

The two day event brought together business and technology professionals from the public sector to share ideas and best practices that will help shape the future of e-Government in Bahrain.

"Through our e-government strategy, we have placed the roadmap and action plan of the government for a period of three years", remarked Deputy Prime Minister and Information and Communication Technology Supreme Committee chairman Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa. "An agreement with Microsoft was finalised to implement the national e-mail project through which Bahrain will be one of the first world countries to provide this effective service free of charge for citizens and residents", he added.

Shaikh Mohammed presented Microsoft with an award for sponsoring the Bahrain International e-government Forum held at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre.

As part of Microsoft's participation in the forum, Khalid Lootah, Public Sector Director, Microsoft Gulf gave a lecture entitled Determinants of customer satisfaction in Government eServices.

"It is my pleasure to have attended and took part in this prestigious forum which brings together senior government representatives, top Chief Information Officers, and Executives from around the world", explained Khalid Lootah. "In my lecture, Microsoft focused on the importance of ensuring that the individuals using e-Government services are satisfied with the quality of services they are receiving and what factors play an important role in achieving this satisfaction. It is these factors that will determine the success of eGovernment services provided to citizens", he added.

Mohammed Al Qaed, CEO, e-Government Agency said,

"One hallmark of today's digital age is new models of collaboration between the public and private sector to deliver improved skills training, access to technology, and funding for new enterprises. Realizing the true economic potential of technology is a critical factor that will help improve national competitiveness, increase social opportunities for citizens and drive economic growth. Today our goal is to work in close partnership with the private sector to help Bahrainis harness the power of technology."

Commenting on the importance of the event, Badea Esbai, General Manager, Microsoft Bahrain: "Technology has touched millions of lives and played a significant role in fostering economic development across the region. Microsoft aims to empower Bahraini citizens with technology services and tools that will help in nurturing strong local software economies. It was our pleasure to be part of this prestigious forum and was a great opportunity for leaders from the public and private sectors to discuss the critical issues they face and create a road map for moving forward together."

The forum also aimed to address key issues that face the government today including privacy, security, information management and client uptake.

The event served as a platform for more effective communication among regional government leaders, which will ultimately result in identifying plans and strategies to enhance e-government in the region.

Panel discussions were also held during the event to discuss the future direction of eGovernment and the provision of timely and accurate e-government services to citizens.