The Division of Information Systems and Telecommunications is comprised of two Services. The Business Solutions Service is responsible for the development and support of information systems for Headquarters and in the Field, including the MSRP and Project Profile/proGres. The Infrastructure and Telecommunications Service is responsible for headquarters and field computing infrastructure, network development and support, field user support, and the expansion of global satellite communications.

The Division's strategic objectives in 2006 focused on achieving significant cost savings through optimizing UNHCR's computing infrastructure, plus the prudent use of external partners to further reduce costs while improving the quality of service to users. The two major DIST initiatives in 2006 were the field roll-out of MSRP and implementation of the proGres system under Project Profile.

In 2006 DIST continued to support field and headquarters users in all aspects of information and communications technology. Achievements included the completion of its PeopleSoft human resources employee data management module; collaboration with an external partner to further strengthen, expand, and maintain UNHCR's VSAT network; the establishment of a Global Service Desk which integrates all first level support functions; and the establishment of a Governance Board for information and communications technology. These achievements strengthened the infrastructure and the ability of the Division to support UNHCR in fulfilling its mandate.

Source: UNHCR Global Report 2006. For more details, see chapter Headquarters (pdf).