2-17-505. Policy. (1) It is the policy of the state that information technology be used to improve the quality of life of Montana citizens by providing educational opportunities, creating quality jobs and a favorable business climate, improving government, and protecting individual privacy and the privacy of the information contained within information technology systems.
     (2) It is the policy of the state that the development of information technology resources in the state must be conducted in an organized, deliberative, and cost-effective manner. The following principles must guide the development of state information technology resources:
     (a) There are statewide information technology policies, standards, procedures, and guidelines applicable to all state agencies and other entities using the state network.
     (b) Whenever feasible and cost-effective, common data is entered once and shared among agencies.
     (c) In order to minimize unwarranted duplication, similar information technology systems and data management applications are implemented and managed in a coordinated manner.
     (d) Planning and development of information technology resources are conducted in conjunction with budget development and approval.
     (e) Information technology systems are deployed aggressively whenever it can be shown that it will provide improved services to Montana citizens.
     (f) Public-private partnerships are used to deploy information technology systems when practical and cost-effective.
     (g) State information technology systems are developed in cooperation with the federal government and local governments with the objective of providing seamless access to information and services to the greatest degree possible.
     (h) State information technology systems are able to accommodate electronic transmissions between the state and its citizens, businesses, and other government entities.
     (3) It is the policy of the state that the department must be accountable to the governor, the legislature, and the citizens of Montana.

     History: En. Sec. 3, Ch. 313, L. 2001.