Alpana Pradhan

What brought you to a career in technology at the United Nations?

I always aspired to serve for humanity and after thirteen years of service in the Field Missions with United Nations in the field of Information Technology, I feel proud to state that I have been able to make direct/indirect contribution through innovations and technological support for achieving bigger goals of United Nations for global efforts focusing on various fundamental issues impacting people from sustainable development environment, disaster relief, gender mainstreaming, human rights, in efforts to make the world a better place for all.

What has been your favorite technology project or initiative at the United Nations and why? What was your contribution?

We are all moving forward to digital innovation, mobility in working environment and helping environment by using minimal paper. One project that I have recently completed that has been a journey of continuous learning and expanding my skills is the development of UNTSO Protocol Application created using Microsoft Power Suite (PowerApps, Power Automate and Microsoft Lists). When the Protocol Officer expressed her concern and difficulties of channeling requests and asked me if an application could be made. She had a lot of ideas and I had to translate them into and application. I told her I will try. I was able to do lot of research, studying and was able to successfully deliver the application. It has helped Protocol Office to streamline all the requests they receive, provide customer satisfaction. The staff members can view all their requests in one application, monitor the progress of the request. Get a reminder when the document is about to expire so new request can be submitted on time. The application is dynamic and is accessible from a mobile, tablet or a computer from anywhere as long as you are an authorized user and have internet connectivity. Overall, I feel proud of myself about the project and how much I have learnt during the development of this application.

What advice would you give women interested in pursuing a field in technology?

First and foremost, believe in yourself, your abilities and focus on your strengths donﾒt let anyone tell you otherwise. Never be afraid to speak up and share your ideas, your insight could make a big difference, your voice is as important as anyone elseﾒs. The world of technology is evolving learn continuously to develop your skills, take advantage of all available resources, it is a key to success (Knowledge is Power).