EFFICIENCY OF PROJECT SIMPLE: A PERCEPTION OF THE ICT COORDINATORS, SCHOOL HEADS AND TEACHERS

Abstract

This study presents the perception of the Information and Communications Technology ICT Coordinators, School Heads and Teachers on the efficiency of Project SIMPLE along with the challenges and opportunities related to its implementation through a SWOT Analysis. Data were collected from purposively selected 300 ICT Coordinators, 40 School Heads and 30 Teachers using Google forms. Based on the results of the study, easier access to personnel information, organized and paperless updating of data, and on time release of claims and benefits are the strengths of the Project SIMPLE. Poor internet connection or no connectivity at all, lack of knowledge on ICT and on the Project SIMPLE of teachers, usability features of the SIMPLE application used, and errors in data entry and difficulty in data collection were identified as the major weaknesses. On the other hand, they believed that Project SIMPLE should encourage more cooperation among stakeholders for efficient and updated data collection, consider expanded accessibility of the SIMPLE app and database by the schools, possibility of upgrading the features of the app and improve information dissemination on Project SIMPLE including capacity building features for its users. The respondents considered hacking and insecurity of data is a serious threat to Project SIMPLE among factors such as human error. Possible threats are also change of administration and unavailability of funds to sustain the project.