DECEMBER 14, 2005

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land's strong customer focus, practical business sense and strategic use of technology fueled numerous accomplishments in 2005 that are resulting in more convenient, effective service.

Land's innovative style and service-oriented agenda have benefited customers since she became Michigan's 41st Secretary of State in 2003. She capped her third year in office by delivering additional efficiencies and service enhancements.

"It's all about the customer," Land said. "Everything we do is geared to providing quality service while stretching each tax dollar. Whether it's modernizing our branch office system or ensuring inclusive elections, we're committed to meeting the needs of today's customer. But we also have our eye on tomorrow. That's why we'll continue positioning our department to provide convenient, efficient service down the road. We had many successes in 2005 but the best is yet to come."

Improving polling place accessibility, speeding up branch office visits through the use of Self-Service Stations, upgrading the Department of State's technology infrastructure, making services more available to the public and working with safety advocates to improve driver education are just some of this year's achievements.

Highlights of Land's 2005 accomplishments include:

ENSURING INCLUSIVE ELECTIONS

• Awarding more than $980,000 to help communities expand access to polling places through Michigan's "Improving Access for All" program.
• Enhancing the online Michigan Voter Information Center with additional features designed to give voters even more information.
• Replacing outdated voting systems across the state with optical scan equipment. Using federal dollars, Michigan spent more than $28 million for the new equipment in 2005 alone.

MODERN SERVICES FOR TODAY'S CUSTOMER

• Working with various agencies and jurisdictions to coordinate driver's license and identification card assistance for Hurricane Katrina evacuees.
• Partnering with the Michigan Paralyzed Veterans Association to offer an online directory of gas stations that serve drivers with disabilities.
• Implementing the Auto Lost & Found Web site that helps residents track down abandoned vehicles.

TARGETING TECHNOLOGY

• Reducing customer waiting time for license plate tab renewals by unveiling Self-Service Stations in nearly 30 PLUS offices and SUPER!Centers.
• Upgrading data lines at more than 70 branch offices for faster service.
• Enhancing the department's Uniform Commercial Code online program so that multiple transactions can be transmitted.
• Modernizing the online renewal program, resulting in a 44 percent increase in transactions from fiscal year 2004.

MAKING EVERY DOLLAR COUNT

• Redirecting nearly $600,000 in saved rental costs to improve customer services.
• Saving nearly $40,000 by reusing office furniture.

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