32 PUBLIC GAMING INTERNATIONAL • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 The FLEX Draw Dashboard is also automation compatible, so lotteries and vendors that previously setup automation systems within MARS don’t have to repeat the process. With automation, draw staff only need to monitor the Draw Dashboard for progress, but information can be entered manually if needed. Another bonus – secure passwords that never expire but can be changed by the end user. “Believe it or not, we’ve had a few rare cases in which someone’s password expired in the middle of a drawing,” noted Dooley. “With FLEX, users won’t have that problem. It’s one less thing to worry about on draw nights.” The elimination of password expirations was the direct result of FLEX’s enhanced security backed by multi-factor authentication. Based on user preference, the authentication can be configured to email, text message or an authenticator app, such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. The feature provides an extra layer of security for the role-based site and games facilitated by MUSL. MUSL’s draw team and Beek have been onboarding lotteries and vendors to the FLEX system in phases over the last six months. They hope to complete the process by the end of the year. In September, FLEX was the featured topic in MUSL’s recurring Draw Information Sessions for lottery staff. The session gave MUSL the opportunity to go over the new system and collect feedback from users on ways to improve it. “FLEX is an agile system,” Beek noted. “We’re able to take suggestions and work solutions into future releases, so the user experience can be continuously strengthened.” In addition to supporting draws, FLEX’s agility also bolsters the organization’s product development initiatives. The MUSL Board of Directors has re-affirmed the development of new products as a top priority for the Association. With FLEX, MUSL can quickly add new games or make changes to existing games. “The FLEX system really puts us in a position to be more nimble and improve our speed to market,” said J. Bret Toyne, MUSL Executive Director. “This has been a tremendous undertaking for MUSL’s technical infrastructure, but very worthwhile for the immediate and long-term benefits.” So far, the feedback from lotteries and vendors has been overwhelmingly positive. MUSL will start to transition additional business functions to the FLEX system over the next couple of months. Some long-term goals include eliminating VPN connections and implementing additional accounting activities, including the ability for lotteries to initiate receivables. “FLEX is a custom system for a truly unique organization,” Beek added. “It’s going to be able to evolve alongside MUSL.” n The FLEX system really puts us in a position to be more nimble and improve our speed to market Sue Dooley and Dallas Beek
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