Railroad Commission Awards IT Modernization Contract Today

AUSTIN--  Railroad Commissioners today approved awarding a contract to CGI Technologies and Solutions, Inc. (CGI) to implement the Railroad Commission’s Information Technology  modernization program.

The $13.9 million contract requires CGI to complete Phase 1, the planning and analysis portion of the project by May 2014.  Phase II-the implementation will be split into two parts, the first completed by February 2015 and the second completed by June 2015.  CGI represents clients in the energy sector and has implemented regulatory products in several states, including Texas, where the company completed IT modernization activities for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Chairman Barry Smitherman said, “This is an exciting time at the Railroad Commission as we can now move forward with the long-awaited update of our IT systems, which is vital for our staff to keep pace with the current energy boom we are experiencing statewide.”

Commissioner David Porter said, “Our hardworking staff will now have additional technological tools to help boost our ongoing work to protect public safety and the environment while regulating oil and gas production.”

Commissioner Christi Craddick said, “Texas is the nation’s top oil and gas producer, and to remain a leading regulator, our agency must keep pace with the industry in technological advancements. This modernization program helps us to do just that.”

The Commission’s IT modernization program will provide improvements including:

• Revising outdated manual processes to obtain process efficiency;
• Developing integrated web-based applications that enable filing or exchange of data;
• Integrating additional online filings with revenue or fee collection;
• Commission website redesign based on stakeholder input;
• Consolidating the compliant, inspection, violation, enforcement, and docket tracking processes and systems;
• Developing integrated web-based applications that enhance internal business (permitting) efficiency;
• Providing Commission stakeholders (industry, public, interest groups) efficient access to timely and accurate data;
• Minimizing dependence on mainframe systems; and
• Developing applications that can take advantage of mobile technologies in the future.

About the Railroad Commission

Established in 1891, the Railroad Commission of Texas is the oldest regulatory agency in the state. The Commission has a long and proud history of service to both Texas and to the nation, including more than 90 years regulating the oil and gas industry. Additionally, the Commission promotes research and education on the use of alternative fuels and has jurisdiction over gas utility, surface mining and pipeline industries. Our mission is to serve Texas by our stewardship of natural resources and the environment, our concern for personal and community safety, and our support of enhanced development and economic vitality for the benefit of Texans. To learn more, please visit http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/.