bill payment system

A new computer system for paying North Dakota's Medicaid bills will be delayed until April 2011, said an executive who apologized Tuesday to state lawmakers for his company's tardiness in finishing the $62.5 million project.

"I understand when you sign up with a partner, you put your own reputation and credibility at stake, and I understand your disappointment in us," said Mark Boxer, a senior vice president for the software's developer, Affiliated Computer Services Inc. ( ACS - news - people ) of Dallas.

Nextel has selected NCR to provide a self-service bill payment system designed to enhance service. The system will be based on the NCR SelfServ 32 automated teller machine platform and will enable Nextel customers to pay their bills without staff assistance. With the introduction of the system customers will have an opportunity to choose between using cash, credit cards, debit cards or banks.