The ICT Division at the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) began its computing journey in the 1970s, starting with a Hewlett-Packard programmable desktop. Over the years, the division evolved, moving from relying on external organizations’ computing resources to acquiring its own mainframe in 1987. By the early 90s, PIDE embraced distributed computing, establishing an Ethernet backbone and connecting workstations. The decommissioning of the mainframe in 1994 marked the transition to a robust distributed computing environment.

Today, PIDE’s network supports over 500 nodes through a Gigabit Ethernet Local Area Network (LAN) and wireless access points for a Smart Campus. Broadband internet, web email services, and online platforms for e-learning and meetings are provided. The ICT Division supports staff, students, and faculty through technical services for online courses, workshops, webinars/seminars and meetings.

The division has contributed significantly to PIDE’s online presence, designing and developing the PIDE website since 1998. It has also created several portals, including the Pakistan Society of Development Economists (PSDE) portal, the Pakistan Development Review (PDR), and others.

Beyond this, the ICT Division aids other departments by managing data and systems for admissions, payroll, examinations, and surveys. It also assists with plagiarism checking, faculty evaluation, and hosting multimedia presentations.

Currently, PIDE uses ODOO software for ERP, but as part of the Higher Education Development in Pakistan project, SAP ERP is being implemented with the aim of transitioning fully to SAP.

Additionally, the ICT Division manages data verification for the Prime Minister’s National Laptop Scheme and maintains digital archives of PIDE’s research publications. The division also plays a role in developing the computer skills of PIDE’s staff and students through training sessions.

Through its continuous efforts, the ICT Division ensures PIDE stays at the forefront of technological evolution, providing essential support to all stakeholders.