by Jems Brian J. Zapatos, CCSÂ | May 21 2024
In a groundbreaking initiative, the College of Computer Studies (CCS) of the Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) partners with the ILIGANiCE Program to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in embracing information systems technologies. This collaboration, driven by MSU-IIT's dedication to inclusive innovation, supported 17 MSMEs across diverse sectors such as carinderias, laundromats, fruit farms, retail, food processing entities, bakeries, convenience stores, casual dining, and coffee shops around Iligan City and Lanao Del Norte.
The BS Information Systems students under the class ISY114-IS Strategy, Management, and Acquisition conducted a comprehensive training program tailored for the 17 MSMEs seeking to delve into and use the Peddlr point-of-sale and inventory management application within their day-to-day functions.
Peddlr is a free mobile point-of-sale application developed by Peddlr Philippines Inc. that is designed to help micro, small, and medium enterprises in the Philippines streamline their business operations. The primary goal of this initiative was to instill a deep understanding of the value of the information systems among the MSMEs, ensuring they grasp its significance.
The training encompassed thorough guidance on navigating the various information systems modules, equipping trainees with the necessary skills for seamless technology integration into their actual business operations, thereby enhancing their overall performance and efficiency.
Through an array of workshops, training sessions, and personalized consultations, the teams engaged closely with the MSMEs to evaluate existing systems, pinpoint areas for enhancement, and implement customized solutions tailored to their unique requirements.
The students who served as the associate information systems strategists of the MSMEs played a pivotal role as remote technical support and technology trainers for the MSME beneficiaries of ILIGANiCE. The students assumed the role of remote associate information systems strategists, aligning the MSMEs' business strategies with their IT strategy through activities encompassing business policy, IS plan development, IT change management, and technology adoption initiatives. For five months from January to April 2024, these students introduced a mobile-based information system to the MSMEs, revolutionizing their business operations with automated functionalities in expense tracking, ledgering, store management, accounting, point of sale, and inventory management.
By fostering strong connections between the government, industry, and academic sectors, this initiative propels the growth of a knowledge-based and innovation-centric economy in Northern Mindanao, marking a significant stride towards a more technologically empowered and economically vibrant region.