10 Information Technology Policy and Direction

Through this program, the Chief Information Officer maintains current policies for information technology activities to ensure the state adopts and uses "best practices" of the technology industry in managing the programs and functions of the state. The policies developed and adopted by the Chief Information Officer will focus on minimizing overlap, redundancy, and operating cost by promoting the efficient and effective use of information technology. The functional activities of this program are to maintain a state information technology strategic plan, establish statewide information policies and standards, facilitate the development and implementation of enterprise initiatives, and maintain a governance structure to address issues and concerns that arise as part of technology deployment. The results of activities under this program will guide the efforts of the Project Review and Oversight program.

20 Project Review and Oversight

This function previously resided with the Department of Finance, and is being transferred to the Office of the Chief Information Officer to ensure that project-specific decisions are consistent with the state's policies and direction for information technology development. The Chief Information Officer will continue the system of graduated oversight for all reportable technology projects, and assess information technology projects and department/agency performance in the areas of project management and project oversight. The Chief Information Officer will also make recommendations to the Department of Finance and the Governor regarding the costs and benefits of providing funding for specific projects and activities, and will advise departments/agencies when proposed projects are not consistent with the information policies and direction the state is pursuing.