Department of Licensing Plans Computer Systems Upgrade

The Department of Licensing (DOL) is in the early planning stages to replace the existing computer system and sub-systems that support business and professional licensing and regulation. They plan to upgrade to a modernized, flexible, and easily maintained system, which will provide many benefits to licensees and the public:

• Integrated licensing and regulation systems for more efficient service
• Expanded online account management features
• Additional payment options and mobile-friendly alternatives
• Online complaint filing
• More effective and timely communication, including renewal notices via email
• Robust public search capabilities and consumer access to data and statistics

DOL shared more information about their modernization plans at our recent Board meeting held on July 21, 2017. They are preparing the way to begin the project in late fall of 2018 with a projected completion date of winter 2019/2020.

As you may already be aware, the temporary fee suspension for landscape architects was lifted on July 1, 2016. This fee change provides additional funds to support enhanced services for licensees, including:

• New online processes recently made available to many professions, including online initial applications, renewals, and account maintenance
• Ongoing support for these online processes
• Modernization of the existing system and related sub-systems
• Stabilization of existing systems until the new system is in place

Part of preparing for the new system includes thoroughly reviewing existing processes and requirements and looking for opportunities for streamlining whenever possible. DOL is still early in the process and wants to hear from their customers on how they can make their processes more effective. You can provide input or ask questions by emailing Karen Main at [email protected].

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