Ideally, the implementation of a particular item of technology should be part of an overall information technology strategy. Sometimes referred to as a strategic information systems plan, such a plan is generally a publicly documented vision of how information technology will be strategically managed in an organisation.
Some jurisdictions now require all government agencies to prepare and publish a strategic information systems plan.
An overall information technology strategy will encompass all aspects of an election management body's (EMB's) information technology needs. Mapping out these needs in general terms will serve to identify opportunities for obtaining new or upgraded technology, and will also indicate where economies can be achieved by pooling resources and using various items of technology for multiple uses.
Areas that could be covered in an overall information technology strategy include:
Management structure
- computer systems administration
- hardware acquisition
- hardware maintenance
- software acquisition
- software maintenance
- manual contingency systems
- general office automation systems (such as word processing, desktop publishing, spreadsheet and presentation software)
- specialised task-specific systems (of which there may be many, such as election specific systems like voter registration, polling place management, electronic voting and vote counting systems, as well as more generic finance and personnel systems)
Data management
- systems integration and compatibility
- system verification and testing
- server management
- stand alone systems
- quality assurance
- ensuring reliability of data
- data archiving, backup and version control
- systems maintenance
Communications management
- network administration
- cabling
- Internet
Staffing
- selection and recruitment
- training and development
User management
- user support
- help desk services
Computer supplies and consumables
Managing obsolescence
Security
- encryption
- virus protection
- physical environment concerns
- insurance
Public assurance measures
- privacy standards
- public information policy
Communication systems
Email
Audio visual applications
Strategies for special needs groups (for example, people who need language services, hearing assistance or visual assistance)
Financial Management
- estimates and budgets
- expenditure control
- financial reporting
- audit procedures
- supply and inventory management
- procurement policies
- contract management
Warehousing and distribution control
Voter identification systems
Boundary delimitation systems
Geographic information systems
Publications
Public inquiry systems
Scanning systems
Mailing systems
Forms design
Research
Source:
"Management of Advanced Technology in Elections", Harry Neufeld, Management Consultant, Canada. Reviewed by Pedro Guarda.
