The objective of the project is to increase the production of the updated 1:50,000 scale topographic maps and to exceed the client satisfaction rating target of 87 percent required in NAMRIA Quality Manual through the improvement and implementation of work process based on the current resources of the agency – people, hardware, and software—that will facilitate mapping efficiency. This includes a shift in systems technology which the agency has already acquired, as well as understanding or use of the modern equipment/software to become more efficient in data/map production.

Background and Problem

The NAMRIA is the central mapping agency of the Philippines. It plays an important role in nation-building by providing the maps for all planning, budget scope, and strategic changes in the country. One of its major final outputs (MFO) is the topographic map use for development planning, hazard mapping, military strategic planning, academic study, and others. For NAMRIA to contribute significantly to the programs, activities, and projects of the government, the need to efficiently produce the whole set of topographic map in the least amount of time is necessary to provide the general public the needed data. The Cartography Division is directly in charge of producing the 1:50,000 scale topographic maps. Map production involves a meticulous process that depends on the cartographer, hardware, and map-making software. However, the current work process shows gaps among personnel, software use, and hardware needs. The problems include duplication of activities in the process, inappropriate assignments given to the personnel which affect their efficiency, and the need for upgrade on hardware and software compatibility.

Solution and Impact

To address the problem, the project set the following deliverables:

  • technical personnel competency assessment instrument/form;
  • results of the technical personnel assessment including action plan for staff development and employee engagement;
  • hardware assessment report;
  • personnel performance measures through the monitoring form; and
  • re-designed work process.

The project’s intended results are enhanced internal efficiency, increased organizational performance, improved service delivery. and improved client satisfaction rating in map production.

Milestones

During the implementation period, these activities were undertaken:

  • creation of project committee and conduct of meetings;
  • preparation, administration, and analysis of competency-based and employee engagement survey;
  • inventory and evaluation of hardware and software;
  • conduct of workshop on cartographic enhancement;
  • review, analysis, and re-engineering of topographic base mapping work process;
  • modification of personnel performance measure via the monthly performance monitoring form; and
  • monitoring and evaluation of the new process.

Note: This initiative is based on the Public Management Development Program (PMDP) Re-Entry Plan of Ms. Jane V. Roque of the PMDP Middle Manager Class Batch 4 (Bato-Balani).