Benefits of digitalization
I have been on leave from writing because I have been busy getting certified as an Entrepreneurial Operating System, or EOS, Implementer—something we have been using in our own business for the last six years that allowed me to run a business, take care of my five kids, and my ambitious quest to become a professional amateur pickleball player. In short, it gave me the freedom to live my best life.
Now that my son has joined the business, I am using EOS to help us build a professional team around the next generation. One of its key components is process: making sure important things are done consistently, efficiently, and without depending on one heroic person to make everything work.
Which brings me, unexpectedly, to the Land Transportation Office or LTO.
Because I had been so busy, I completely forgot to renew my driver’s license on time. Then I realized I was traveling soon and would need a valid license to rent a car.
So while running errands for our never-ending house renovation, I told our driver, “Forget the hardware for now, drop me off at the LTO in Alabang Town Center.”
I walked in with very little preparation—and even less optimism.
Someone immediately pointed me where to go. He also explained the next step. No fixer. No mysterious “ma’am, ako na bahala.” Just people helping me go through the process.
Less than 30 minutes later, I was done.
To be fair, my experience may have been faster because I had no unsettled apprehensions. Under LTO rules, a driver with an unsettled traffic violation cannot renew until it is settled. Demerit points also matter: previous violations can mean getting a five-year instead of a 10-year license, while drivers with more demerit points may need additional reorientation or examinations.
In other words, behave, and bureaucracy apparently rewards you. Who knew?
I also like that renewal now requires the CDE Online Validation Exam. It is 25 questions, and you need 20 correct answers to pass. Best of all, you can take it online before going to the LTO office.
That is exactly how government digitalization should work: move what does not need a physical counter out of the physical counter.
My only comment is that the exam could become an even better learning tool.
Some questions covered motorcycles even though I primarily drive cars, so maybe it should have this distinction since they require two different skill sets. There were also two or three Motor Vehicle Charge Law questions that, admittedly, made me stop and think, “Why is this included?” But I think it would be better to focus on how to survive EDSA.
I think the purpose of the exam was to be a mini refresher, right? So if yes, maybe just a bit more tweaking is needed.
The LTMS portal already has an e-learning section with a Driver’s License Renewal Course, Driver’s Manual, road courtesy and safety, traffic laws, fines, and penalties. Perhaps LTO can make this review section more prominent before the exam—and/or require us to review it before the test. I know extra hassle, but if we are to get 10 year valid license, a little discomfort can save lives.
Also, there is a button that allows you to review the wrong answers afterward, it might be more effective when its required. That is where actual learning happens.
And yes, best of all, they even let me reuse my old photo.
Finally, a government process that understands women: efficient service and permanent youth.
All kidding aside, this was one of those small experiences that gives you hope. Good systems make things easier for both employees and customers. The LTO renewal process I experienced was clear, digital where it could be, human where it needed to be, and surprisingly fast.
Process works. In business—and apparently, even at the LTO.
Is your experience the same? Let me know on Instagram @Chicdriven.
******
Get real-time news updates: inqnews.net/inqviber
