version allows users to access the system using only an internet connection.
Considered one of the most powerful and efficient on the market, the software developed by CIRI to manage its shareholder records can now be adopted by other Alaska Native regional and village corporations. The system, called Granite, performs the complicated tasks specific to requirements mandated by the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA). In addition to CIRI, two other Alaska Native regional corporations – Calista Corp. and NANA Regional Corp. – now use Granite.
Recently, CIRI unveiled a simplified, cloud-based version of the software, which is available for purchase by Alaska Native village corporations. Cloud-based software eliminates the need to purchase expensive servers and hire IT staff for maintenance; instead, the application requires only an internet connection. The first customer to implement the cloud-based software was Seldovia Native Association Inc., which began converting its records and transitioning into its new database in November 2016. Five additional village corporations also recently purchased the software.
“Granite is a product developed by an Alaska Native corporation for Alaska Native corporations,” said Barbara Donatelli, senior vice president of CIRI. “CIRI understands the importance of maintaining critical shareholder records in an accurate, secure manner. For Alaska Native regional and village corporations that wish to simplify and streamline shareholder records management, Granite is an ideal solution.”
The evolution of the Granite software began more than a decade ago when CIRI made the decision to strengthen its shareholder records management capabilities. CIRI’s IT and Shareholder Relations departments collaborated to create a new system that seamlessly integrated the complexities of managing shareholder records.
With Granite, input validation and wizards streamline data entry and empower records personnel to swiftly and accurately complete complex stock transfers. Statistical reports are produced with the click of a mouse. Tools aid in the efficient tracking and administration of stock estate settlements. Alerts prompt staff to remind shareholders about a variety of situations, such as the need to complete a stock will, cash a dividend check or provide current contact information. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
“The beauty of the system is that the Shareholder Relations employees who actually perform the work were involved every step of the way in the system redesign and testing efforts,” said betsy Peratrovich, senior director, Shareholder Relations. “Basically, we have a great team that helped build Granite into the best product it could be.”
Visit www.unleashgranite.com to learn more about the Granite shareholder records management system.
