Integrating an Online Management System into Technical Schools

A Step Toward Digital Transformation

Abstract

This article presents the implementation of the Unified Public Administration System (SUAP) in technical schools across the State of Mato Grosso, Brazil, as a key initiative in the state government’s digital transformation strategy. Developed in collaboration with UFMT, IFMT and SECITECI, the project aimed to modernize educational governance by replacing fragmented, manual processes with a centralized, cloud-based platform. By integrating SUAP into school administration, the initiative enhanced transparency, streamlined workflows, and standardized digital services across urban and rural institutions, reinforcing social cohesion and reducing regional disparities in access to technology. The project addressed critical challenges such as infrastructure limitations, data security, and resistance to change. Custom solutions were implemented, including improved Moodle integration and enhanced SUAP functionalities for certificate management and user permissions. A collaborative, agile approach guided the development process, ensuring that technical teams, policymakers, and educators worked together to build a robust and scalable system. Additionally, a comprehensive capacity-building program equipped staff and students with the necessary digital literacy skills to maximize system adoption. Results demonstrated significant impact, with 719 students, 124 technical staff, and 190 teachers actively using the system, alongside the migration of over 800 historical records. By aligning with the State of Mato Grosso Digital Strategic Agenda (2023–2027), this initiative exemplifies how subnational governments can leverage digital transformation to optimize public services, enhance institutional efficiency, and foster digital inclusion. The success of SUAP in Mato Grosso provides a replicable model for other regional administrations seeking to modernize governance and ensure equitable access to digital public services.