SOS Express News from Secretary of State Ruth Johnson

Final express newsletter header
CARS logo

SOS begins CARS Project to modernize computer system for customers, staff

Secretary of State staff are celebrating the recent launch of the new effort to modernize the office’s computer system that will bring more efficient, convenient service to customers across Michigan, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson announced Aug. 15.

The new effort, called Customer and Automotive Records System (CARS), will create a modern computer system, replacing the antiquated legacy mainframe-based system that dates to the late 1960s. The legacy system is programmed with a computer language that is no longer taught, and is costly to maintain and update.

“The people of Michigan and Secretary of State staff deserve better than the out-of-date computer system we have,” Johnson said. “Now we are moving forward with our partner FAST Enterprises to make a much-improved system a reality. FAST has a proven record of success launching similar projects on time and on budget for many other state motor-vehicle agencies.”

The CARS Project will combine Michigan’s millions of driver and vehicle records into one integrated customer record system that updates in real time, replacing multiple, separate systems that don’t effectively transfer customer-record updates among themselves.

All of the information in the new system will be quickly accessible by an office staff member with a single search. Even correspondence that has been sent to each customer will be part of their record.

The improvement in technology will pave the way for more self-service options for customers, such as ordering license plates online, and for faster, less resource-intensive programming when there are legislative changes that affect the department. CARS will also help the department move to electronic records and to eliminate paperwork for customers.

More from the news release


step forward

MSHDA program provides loans to help homeowners who are facing hardships

Having trouble keeping up with your mortgage or property tax payments? This program from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) may be able to help you. 

StepForwardMichigan.org 

voting equipment

Voters happy with new machines' debut

New voting equipment was used in 63 jurisdictions across Michigan during the Aug. 8 election and the early reviews are positive, Secretary Johnson said. By August 2018, all cities and townships statewide will have the new equipment.

WILX TV-10 story

SOS demo video


mac bridge

Mac Bridge to close for Labor Day Walk

The Secretary of State's Office is teaming up with the Mackinac Bridge Authority to make sure the general public knows the Mighty Mac will be closed to vehicular traffic from 6:30 a.m. to noon on Labor Day to accomodate the tens of thousands of people taking part in the annual Bridge Walk.

More


Marathon logo

Get EDLs now for Free Press Marathon

The last day to apply for an enhanced driver's license or enhanced state ID in time for The 2017 Detroit Free Press / Chemical Bank Marathon is Saturday, September 23.

As a reminder, Michigan residents participating in the 2017 Detroit Marathon or International Half-Marathon on October 15 who plan to obtain an enhanced driver’s license or identification card to re-enter the United States should apply for the enhanced license or identification card at least one month prior to the race.

More