DLK Consulting is using Linux to fast-track the development of specialised applications for group funeral scheme administrator Nu Era. The new Web-based applications will enable clients to update their information online while giving the firm`s management more dynamic reporting tools.
The customised Web-based applications will go live in September, six months after the project started with a business needs analysis.
Managing director Colin Daries says the functionality DLK is building into the system will dramatically improve relationships with Nu Era`s clients which include trades unions, churches, undertakers, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
"It`ll be far quicker and more effective for our clients to take control of ensuring the accuracy of their members` records on the system. Apart from keeping down administration costs, this gives our management more time to use the wealth of demographic information about members to better manage the risk profiles of the schemes."
He adds that efficient risk management is crucial in ensuring that the clients` contributions to schemes are wisely invested. In addition, understanding the risk ratios of geographic areas in which members live, underpins effective and proactive fund management.
DLK Consulting account executive Tania Muller says the decision to develop Nu Era`s application on an open source platform ensures ease of maintenance of the system once it is implemented.
"We`ve been amazed at how quickly the development is progressing. The rate at which we have been able to develop functionality, flexibility and rigour into the applications is a good indication of how easily the system can be adapted for future needs without incurring major costs."
Nu Era, which has been operating in the Western Cape, North West Province, Northern and Eastern Cape for four years, has about 170 clients with a total of about 100 000 members.
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