On 12 February 2005 the Land Registry introduced the Central Registration System and launched the Integrated Registration Information System (IRIS). Central Registration is the culmination of the process of integrating Hong Kong's land registration services, begun in the 1980's when the then Registrar General's Department began to take over the New Territories Land Registries from the Lands Department. Now, deeds affecting any property anywhere in the region can be delivered for registration at a single point. IRIS provides the computer system to support central registration. It delivers seamless information services to the public over the internet as well as through our search offices. It also provides comprehensive support to our internal registration process.

Introducing Central Registration was a major challenge for the department. The IRIS IT project required close management. All staff had to be retrained to operate the new system with its 'whole of job' approach. Legislation had to be passed on time. All our clients and customers had to be prepared for the new system. All our offices had to be refurbished, relocated or prepared for closing down on the launch date. During the Chinese New Year holiday, from close of business on 8th February until opening of the new service on 12th February, almost all the staff of the department were engaged in moving into their new work stations. Final data conversion to the IRIS system also took place over this period. Despite the added challenge of over 6,000 deeds being delivered on 8th February - over double the usual number - all of which had to be entered under the old system before conversion could proceed, the Department was ready for business on target. There were some anxious moments, particularly with the internet search services over the first weekend. We provided special assistance in response to the needs of various customers during the first few weeks. Within a very short time, the system was being put to the test as demand for search services increased by up to 40% compared with pre-IRIS levels. It met the test handsomely.

Planning for the Change

The Changeover on Chinese New Year

Getting to Grips with the New System

deeds registration services for customers has been set up on 19th Floor, Queensway Government Offices. Later in 2005, when refurbishment of the part of the 19th Floor previously used by the old search office has been refurbished, the Owners Incorporation Unit will also move here, providing a one stop service to any customer. As well as counter services for search, copy and deeds registration, the Customer Centre also provides an information counter and self service terminals.

In the New Territories, search offices are being maintained in all districts previously served by separate land registries. Again, these are equipped with self service terminals as well as providing counter services.

All offices now provide simpler procedures, much greater selection of payment methods, faster service times and longer service periods than our pre-IRIS offices.

Internet Search Services

IRIS  enables  anyone  with an internet account  to carry out property searches and place orders for documents  from their own computer. These services are available 16 hours a day, seven days a week, almost double the service hours available to subscribers to our  old  Direct  Access Services. The  internet services  also cost less. Regular users can open accounts with

us. Otherwise payment can be made by VISA, MasterCard or PPS. Documents can be delivered via internet browser, download, e-mail, fax or post, or ordered for personal collection at our offices.

To help users of the new services, help desk support is provided through our Customer Service Hotline. In addition, a tutorial with step-by-step demonstration and a comprehensive User Guide are available at the Land Registry's website for reference.