Today the Chicago Transit Board approved investing $5 million in technology upgrades to standardize the computer hardware systems used throughout the CTA. Standardizing the servers and replacing the current mainframe system will reduce the costs associated with supporting the multiple types of older hardware currently in use and result in annual savings of $2.3 million. The total cost to make all of the moves to invest in standard IBM hardware should have a return on investment in three years or less.
"nvesting in updated and more reliable technology that is completely integrated will not only provide savings and system safeguards, but the ability to easily add applications in the future that will further reduce administrative costs," said CTA President Ron Huberman. "Through this upgrade we will also be able to streamline the application process in human resources and activate an iProcurement module that will improve our ability to make online purchases directly from vendors."
The new hardware will also allow CTA to move the materials management information system that tracks all bus repair work to an internal server rather than continuing to maintain it with an outside vendor. It will also provide sufficient capacity to retire the legacy payroll application and transition to a system integrated with the CTA's existing human resources and finance systems.
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