Pastel aids customers in PAIA obligation

If you haven`t already done so, time is running out to comply with the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA). While the process of submitting the required information to the SA Human Rights Commission is not at all complicated, many smaller organisations might have left things to the last minute due to the sheer hassle factor, and uncertainty over what to do, where to do it and by when.

Softline Pastel has recognised this need, and any business that has not yet submitted their information in terms of the Act can go to www.pastel.co.za and follow the "PAIA Manual" link on the site. For a nominal fee of R150, Pastel will ensure the manual is instantly compiled and delivered to the commission. The service also includes annual hosting thereafter, and users can link their manual to their own Web site, or maintain it on the Pastel hosting site.

"Since launching the facility, we`ve had a phenomenal response. We received over 400 registrations in the first few hours. While demand from our customers sparked the initiative to offer the service, the response has shown that a need existed to assist SMEs with the procedure," says Steven Cohen, Managing Director of Softline Pastel.

The many queries received from customers indicated that there was tremendous confusion regarding the compliance procedure and information submissions. Many people were simply not aware of the Act, welcoming Pastel`s endeavour to bring it to their attention.

"We`ve made it as easy as possible for smaller companies and individuals to adhere to the legislation, and be fully PAIA compliant. The process circumvents any unnecessary red-tape and its associated paperwork, making it very quick and easy to comply. In fact, it takes under five minutes to complete the required information."

Cohen adds that customer feedback, so far, has been overwhelming. "The responses we`ve received have noted particularly the ease and speed with which the required details can be completed and submitted online. SME customers have also noted our competitive pricing and appreciate Pastel`s efforts to look after their need for a convenient mechanism," says Cohen. The cost of similar, manual services have been reported to run anywhere from R800 to well over R2 000.

"We realised that we were in a position to play a positive role in assisting our customers. Our understanding of SME needs and our history of operating in this environment enabled us to act quickly to provide SMEs with a user-friendly, accessible and affordable solution," he adds.

"The response from our base underscores the level of trust Pastel has built with our customers. Although not core to our software offering, this is a clear example of the value we are able to add. It is yet another instance of living the brand promise to go beyond accounting.

"We are ultimately hoping to cut through some of the confusion the PAIA regulation has brought about. With the deadline for submissions just around the corner we are taking our commitment to businesses in SA and making it that much easier to comply by 31 August. Importantly, the Pastel PAIA service is not limited to Pastel customers only."