Description
The Lithuanian courts information system LITEKO was created in 2001. The needs of this system has evolved considerably - courts have complicated management of the case administration system, limited use of the existing system by other interested institutions, poor functionality of the system to tailor the system to the user’s needs. LITEKO does not satisfy the needs of the judiciary and external customers. This project is aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the Lithuanian judicial system in upgrading the courts information system, which would be integrated with other information systems of related institutions, providing courts with audio recording equipment. The donor partner is the Norwegian Courts Administration. The purpose of the partnership is to transfer experience in inter-administrative cooperation and to foster bilateral relations between Lithuanian and Norwegian courts administrations.
Summary of project results
The Lithuanian courts information system LITEKO was created in 2001. The needs of this system has evolved considerably - courts had complicated management of the case administration system, the use of the existing system by other interested institutions was limited, poor functionality of the system to tailor the system to the user’s needs. Before the project implementation LITEKO did not satisfy the needs of the judiciary and external customers. The project “Modernization of the courts information system (system for case handling and audio recording for courts hearing)“ was aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the Lithuanian judicial system in upgrading the courts information system, which would be integrated with other information systems of related institutions, providing courts with audio recording equipment. The main project goals were reached successfully by the project team. LITEKO system was modernized and integration with 14 information systems and registers of other institutions has been established. Operational issues have been resolved: system speed problems solved and business processes optimized. Furthermore new functionalities have been added, enabling users to effectively manage and publish data on the proceedings thus keeping all interested parties informed about progress therein. Over 600 of members of staff in Lithuanian courts have been trained to work with the upgraded LITEKO using training materials prepared for this purpose. The foundation for LITEKO2 system was created. During the project stationary and remote audio recording equipment has been installed in 55 courts (335 courtrooms) and servers for storing the audio recordings have been installed. Over 600 of members of staff in Lithuanian courts have been trained to work with new equipment. A storage facility for copies of audio recordings of hearings has been extended in the premises of the National Courts Administration (NCA). Courts have been equipped with new computer equipment: 268 PCs, 56 laptops and 56 tablet computers. 6 educational videos on usage the LITEKO subsystem (e-services portal of Lithuanian Courts - E.teismas.lt) were developed. And finally - modern intranet of NCA has been launched, which will ensure a smoother collaboration, convenient exchange of information, interactive communication.
Summary of bilateral results
Project partner shared their knowledge and experience, provide recommendations and practical advises by implementing activities related to modernization and integration of the courts information systems, as well as contributed to particular project activities. Project administrator was assigned, moreover experts take part in the following activities of the project: creation of a feasibility study and technical specification on the modernization and integration with the systems of relevant institutions of the courts information systems, by sharing their knowledge, providing recommendations and practical aspects. Norwegian experience was transferred and bilateral relations between Lithuanian and Norwegian courts administrations was fostered by taking part in different project stages, activities and common events. Study visit of staff of NCA and Lithuanian judicial system to Norway was organised.