Impacts, Challenges and Opportunities of Cloud Computing in Department of Works and Highways

Abstract

The concept of cloud computing has been around since 1960 when J. C. R Licklider observed that users can share multiple computer resources remotely at any one time. This idea became reality when Microsoft in 2008 introduced its first ever cloud platform Azure which enabled users to share and access information such as videos, music, links and files. The Papua New Guinea National Department of Works and Highways (DOWH) embraces this digital technology by adapting the cloud-based Asset Work Manager (AWM) system which stores and manages road data. The system houses analytical tools such as RAMS/BAMS, GIS and HDM4 where the road data collected on site including project reports is uploaded onto the cloud server and analyzed to produce reports and patterns to guide decision making in road investments. With the aid of the cloud platform, road network planning has improved significantly from planning and programming of capital and maintenance works to implementation, monitoring and reporting. Like any other digital technological inventions, the cloud technology has its own challenges from a product perspective as well as user perception such as lack of expertise within DOWH to manage it, data security concerns, inefficient internet accessibility to all 22 provincial establishments, budget constraints, environmental factors and workforce adaptation. These challenges can be solved through creative thinking, capacity development, collaboration with cloud service providers such as PNG DataCo, improve internet accessibility and open dialogue with all stakeholders. The use of cloud and other digital technologies is here to stay with further developments and advancements expected in the future, therefore the department remains receptive to the changes and will use the technologies to its advantage while at the same time managing the challenges.