Siew Chun Chor, Program Director, Public Sector, HCLTech

1. How do you use technology/policy to improve citizens’ lives? Tell us about your role or organisation.

In HCLTech, I oversee complex technology programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and deliver impactful solutions to clients. This is done through leading cross-functional teams, driving digital transformation projects, and utilizing cutting-edge technologies to address industry-specific challenges.

As an IT Program Director, leveraging technology and policy to improve citizens' lives involves a strategic approach that combines innovation, inclusion, and efficiency.

To improve citizens’ lives, my comprehensive approach begins with identifying their needs through data-driven insights, enabling the recognition of systemic issues and underserved populations. By leveraging data analytics, we can pinpoint gaps in services and tailor solutions accordingly.

Transitioning traditional services like license renewals and tax filings to digital platforms enhances accessibility and convenience, while centralized e-government platforms offer seamless interaction with multiple government services via user-friendly apps and portals.

Efficiency and cost savings are driven through automation technologies like AI and RPA, which streamline bureaucratic processes, as well as the adoption of cloud computing to centralize and scale IT infrastructure for reduced costs and improved agility.

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2. What was the most impactful project you worked on this year?

This year, I am leading the technical Filenet, Java and Database upgrade with features and functions enhancement project to better client’s operation needs, continuing from my last year digital transformation journey. My responsibility is to oversee the project’s planning and execution, with the project manager and team, ensuring a seamless transition with minimal downtime, while staying within the client’s budget and timeline.

We implement an incremental migration strategy, using AI-powered tools to identify dependencies and optimize workflows. I facilitate cross-functional collaboration and ensured open communication to address dependencies and challenges promptly. The project is still on going, requirement gathering with open mindset and welcome innovation are progressing well.  The client’s positive feedback and rooms for improvement are reinforcing the success of our approach.  This project is showcasing the value of teamwork and strategic planning and reinforce my belief in the transformative power of technology.

One of my most memorable work experiences was the successful rollout of a complex IT cloud transformation project last year for Singapore Land Authority. This project involved multiple system integrations across separate environments, and it was a customer-facing application. The team was able to deliver it on agreed time and within budget, achieving a major milestone that had a significant impact on both the client and our team. The positive feedback and accolades we received from the client were incredibly rewarding, affirming the quality of the solution we delivered. To celebrate the project's completion, we held a team celebration to acknowledge everyone's hard work and contributions, which further strengthened our team’s bond and morale.

4. What’s a tool or technique you’re excited to explore in 2025?

In the coming year, I’d be excited to explore AI-powered program management tools like Asana Intelligence, Smartsheet AI, or Microsoft Project with AI features. These tools leverage AI to predict project risks, optimize resource allocation, and offer data-driven insights to support decision-making. By incorporating these technologies, I aim to manage complex programs more efficiently, improving both the speed and accuracy of program execution.

5. Everybody’s talking about AI today – give us your hot take on AI and what it means for the public sector.

AI represents a transformative opportunity for the public sector, offering unprecedented potential to improve efficiency, accessibility, and citizen-centric services. I see AI as a tool to streamline processes like resource allocation, fraud detection, and predictive analytics for public policy, enabling faster and more informed decision-making.

However, the public sector must also address critical challenges, such as ensuring data privacy, ethical use, and preventing biases in AI algorithms. Success lies in adopting AI thoughtfully, integrating it into existing systems while building trust through transparency and inclusivity. When implemented responsibly, AI can revolutionize how governments serve the citizens, making services more adaptive, efficient, and equitable.

6. What are your priorities for 2025?

In 2025, my priorities will focus on enhancing program management efficiency by optimizing delivery timelines, budgets, and resource utilization. Key areas of focus include leveraging AI-powered program management tools, standardizing processes to improve cross-functional collaboration, and reducing costs through hyper automation and better resource planning. These initiatives will aim to streamline operations, increase productivity, and ensure more efficient program execution.

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7. What advice do you have for public sector innovators?

For public sector innovators, my advice is to stay citizen-focused, leveraging technology to solve real problems and enhance public services. Start small by piloting innovations and scaling successful initiatives, ensuring agility and adaptability throughout the process. Embrace data-driven decision-making, but always prioritize transparency and ethical considerations to build trust with stakeholders. Foster collaboration across departments and sectors, as breakthroughs often emerge from diverse perspectives. Finally, invest in upskilling the teams, as equipping them with the latest tools and knowledge is key to driving sustainable, impactful innovation in the public sector.

8. Who inspires you today?

One of my key inspirations is Lee Kuan Yew, whose strategic thinking and commitment to excellence greatly inspire me in my role as an IT program director.

He demonstrated a pragmatic approach, always prioritizing effective policies and adapting to global changes, which teaches me the importance of making data-driven decisions, being flexible with methodologies, and aligning strategies with business realities in technology programs. His focus on high standards in governance, education, and infrastructure laid the foundation for Singapore's success, and this serves as a reminder to prioritize quality in IT projects, enforce continuous learning, striving for best-in-class solutions that deliver measurable, lasting impact.