NLIS Database Uplift Project delivering results

The NLIS Database Uplift Project is progressing on schedule with Stage 3 (Architecture and Design) nearing completion and Stage 4 (Software Build) set to commence in October.

The Architecture and Design stage commenced in July and has used insights and feedback gathered during earlier project stages to identify ways to simplify the way the system works without compromising functionality.

What this means in practice is that livestock producers will require fewer steps and less effort, while enjoying a more positive user experience compared to the current 24-year-old system.

Streamlining NLIS workflows (processes)

This has involved studying current NLIS workflows, or the processes that make the system work, and pinpointing how these can be merged or removed without impacting system functionality.

Several improvements have already been earmarked which, once implemented, will improve NLIS user experience with no impact to functionality. These include:

• 28 workflows merged
• 200+ steps removed
• 5 redundant workflows discontinued.

These and other simplified workflows will inform the build of the new system during Stage 4.

What this means in practice – generating a report

Generating any type of NLIS report currently takes 57 seconds. It requires the user to move through four screens with 14 mouse clicks.

In the uplifted NLIS, this has been reduced to 21 seconds, two screens and 10 mouse clicks.

What to expect from the uplifted NLIS database

Throughout the project, we have listened to what NLIS users want from the uplifted NLIS. Some key themes emerged, and these will be reflected in the new system. They include:

• retaining the core purpose of the NLIS, but making it easier and quicker to use
• a more user-friendly interface
• easier integration with other systems
• and more support and training.

A set of key improvements users can expect to see in the uplifted NLIS database are outlined on this flyer.

Engaging our stakeholders

Consultation and engagement with industry and the broad range of NLIS users has been critical to understand their experience and what they need from the new system. This also gave the project team the invaluable opportunity to gather feedback as the project progresses. An essential part of this governance framework is the establishment of, and consultation with several reference and co-design groups.

The stakeholder voice: The project relies on three reference groups, representing both industry and governments at a state, territory and Commonwealth level. These three groups have worked with us to co-design the new platform by helping clarify stakeholder needs and expectations, as well as testing and validating new ideas.

The Industry Reference Group includes representatives from each of the peak industry councils. This ensures representation from each of the red meat livestock groups is included and that industry needs will be met. Industry Reference Group representatives can then engage with their respective stakeholder groups to ensure the wider industry is kept updated as the NLIS Uplift project progresses.

Technical expertise: The project’s Technical Reference Committee brings together a breadth of technical and key stakeholder expertise to review and test new functionality, as well as advise and guide on all aspects of the project at a more holistic level.

End user experience: Finally, the End User Focus Groups and early concept usability testing framework draw on supply chain participants who test the concept designs to ensure a satisfying user experience. These end users are from a wide background demographic, across species and across locations, having been nominated through the reference committees and through previous engagement.

If you are a producer and would like to be involved in future testing, please let us know.