DOST maximizes use of OneExpert, FIRRST to boost S&T assistance

Considering the immediate needs of its client-MSMEs, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI reconfigured the mode by which they provide S&T services using the OneExpert and FIRRST.

One Expert is an interactive web-based nationwide pool of S&T experts intended to provide technical advise and consultancy services to Filipinos nationwide.

FIRRST or the Fast and Interactive Processing of Requests for S&T Assistance is a system developed by DOST VI to streamline the process of handling requests and provision of services.

The DOST VI online platforms aim to fast-track the technology transfer and commercialization services and more importantly, to bring science and technology practitioners closer to their customers.

The capabilities of the OneExpert portal is expanded to provide online technical and consulting services.  A series of free S&T webinars dubbed as Expert-O or the Expert Online is now available for access to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the OneExpert website.

FIRRST was also extensively utilized so that the provision of S&T services can be managed and monitored starting from the receipt of a request up to the delivery and completion of the assistance.

An online user training of the information systems was conducted by DOST VI to all DOST regional offices and top management.

DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Brenda Nazareth L. Manzano encouraged the regional offices to adopt of FIRRST for public use so DOST clients can submit requests online.  FIRRST is a service monitoring tool for handling of requests from receipt up to the completion of services requested.

It is comprised of interrelated modules, dynamic and customizable, and is interoperable with other information systems such as TRACE for document and user management, IMPRESSION for project management and reporting, and OneExpert for management of consultancy services.

Both information systems will form part of the preparations on the new normal as DOST VI maximizes the use of digital technologies for communication to minimize travel and practice social distancing. (S. Salazar/DOST-6)