Digitization Roadmap Development for DGDA

Digitization Roadmap Development for the Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA) in Bangladesh: First TWG meeting

Digitization Roadmap | DGDA MIS Unit Creation | Digital Transformation | DGDA System Mapping | USP/PQM+

Published: September 08, 2024 by Fatema


In June 2024, the U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention (USP), in partnership with the Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA) and with support from the USAID-funded Promoting the Quality of Medicines Plus (PQM+) program, launched an initiative to develop a digitization roadmap for the DGDA in Bangladesh. This project aims to evaluate the current state of IT infrastructure, create a digitization roadmap blueprint, and it's detailed guidelines to advance the DGDA to WHO Maturity Level 3 and secure WHO prequalification for the National Drug Control Laboratory (NDCL).

Advancing DGDA’s Regulatory Efficiency: To achieve these objectives, the project involves close collaborations with DGDA and relevant stakeholders to define clear development goals. A key component of this effort is the creation of a comprehensive digitization roadmap and a detailed digital architectural blueprint. An in-depth assessment of DGDA’s current IT infrastructure is underway to identify both the existing needs and the opportunities for improvement. Based on this assessment, the team will recommend guidelines and procedures for adopting electronic systems and implementing cross-functional digital solutions that enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of DGDA’s operations.

Strategic Meeting to Address Findings and Gaps: As part of the roadmap development, JBRSOFT Limited and USP/PQM+ organized a Technical Working Group (TGW) meeting with DGDA to review findings and insights regarding the baseline assessment and system mapping. The meeting aimed to identify gaps, align on strategic priorities, and address updates to legislation and compliance measures. This discussion was essential to ensure that the baseline assessment and findings were thoroughly completed with the relevant departments and stakeholders, ensuring no components were overlooked.

The meeting focused on:
  • • Reviewing Findings and System Mapping: Identifying gaps in system development and implementation for the regulatory and operational procedures that may hinder efficiency.
  • • Setting Strategic Priorities: Addressing current challenges in human resources, necessities to create a new department within DGDA as "MIS Department", and nine function based need assessment.
  • • Enhancing Efficiency: Exploring solutions to streamline pharmaceutical regulation and improve overall oversight.

Digitization Roadmap Development Picture: DGDA TWG members, Osudh Vhaban, Mohakhali, Dhaka. Photo Credit: Md. Abul Hasnat.

This comprehensive approach ensures that DGDA’s regulatory framework remains robust and capable of meeting both current and future challenges.

Future Steps for DGDA’s Digital Transformation: Looking ahead, the DGDA will focus on the development and implementation of the roadmap to ensure the success of its IT-related initiatives and the smooth operation of its departments. The JBRSOFT team will continue ongoing activities, including baseline survey data collection for all current systems, and conduct Key Informant Interviews with key government personnel who have experience in developing such comprehensive roadmaps.