Cloud services make difference in Shinan

The "internet +" working model, with the use of big data and cloud services, is being promoted to ensure efficient government work in Shinan district, Qingdao, Shandong province, amid the coronavirus prevention and control effort.

A video conference was recently held in the district due to travel restrictions related to the virus outbreak. Deals for 10 major projects worth 1.8 billion yuan ($259.53 million) were signed during the conference.

The district is expected to provide more online services and promote information sharing to reduce the risk of cross-infection, with several websites and mobile phone apps already launched to support epidemic control efforts.

Since Feb 3, the district's public service center has dealt with over 2,000 affairs online, received nearly 5,000 phone calls seeking consultation and issued around 900 certificates.

The district is also holding remote court sessions. Judges and clerks sit in the court, wearing face masks. Prosecutors, accusers and defendants join the court trials through a phone app. To date, 1,271 cases have been handled online.

Shinan district has taken the lead in the city in launching a virtual reality system for inspecting apartments, avoiding gatherings of people while meeting the needs of bidders.

In addition, exhibitions and tourist attractions are showcased online, enabling residents to "travel" around the world without going out, according to the district's bureau of culture and tourism.