Project Plan/Road Map

Phase One (2009) Completed

The first phase of the project was to conduct a study tour of the UK Pensions Regulator’s TKU (Trustee Knowledge and Understanding E-learning Tool) from 15 to 16 December 2009.

Phase Two (2010) Completed

The second phase of the project was to develop a support program in the form of an online, e-learning programme for pension fund trustees. Development and implementation of the toolkit took 18 months back in South Africa. This phase kicked off with research on whether trustees would use a free e-learning programme if it was developed, maintained and recognised by the FSB and provided that the FSB gave assurance that there would be segregation of the personal information of trustees from the FSB’s enforcement action.

The following was completed during phase two:

1. DEVELOPMENT OF A TRUSTEE DATABASE for E-LEARNING PURPOSES:
On-line registration of trustees was successfully undertaken. A disclaimer was created and published stating clearly that any information derived from the e-learning programme would not be used for enforcement action against trustees.

2. RESEARCH:
A study was conducted using the trustees’ database for e-learning. The study focused on determining the number of trustees who would be interested in an e-learning programme which would be offered by the FSB. A positive response was received, which highlighted the need for trustee education and development.

3. CONTENT:
The process of populating the e-learning programme with content was very time-consuming. The process required intense analysis to ensure accuracy and effectiveness.

4. THE PROJECT PLAN
Development of a detailed PROJECT PLAN took place between April 2010 to March 2011 in consultation with the consultants appointed to develop and implement the project.

Phase Three (2011) Started but not completed

1. The pilot phase was successfully completed in June. All inputs were taken into consideration. The tool has real-life case studies to guide trustees in decision-making. It also provides a download / print option of the content for users who don’t have access to the Internet or a CD/DVD player.

2. Full implementation of the trustee e-learning programme will begin towards the end of July 2011.

3. A marketing campaign of the programme is in the process of being implemented.

4. Development of a 3 year rolling plan is planned to keep the programme updated with current issues affecting the Retirement Funds industry.

5. Planning is underway to make the programme available in hard copy format (Implementation will begin at a later stage in the project).

6. ONGOING & BLENDED LEARNING LEARNING (a combination of both contact and distance learning) ongoing
Continuous research on the development of the toolkit and the content will take place to ensure that the programme keeps current with regulatory matters concerning trustees and in keeping trustees up to date with information.