PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): November 28,
1997 – President Jacob Nena, on November 7, 1997, informed
department, office and agency heads about the need for a proper
computer and information systems policy beneficial to the FSM
Government which is cost effective and compatible with one another.
Due to the lack of a FSM National Government Computer Hardware,
Software and Information Systems Policy, a proposed policy was issued
under the President’s signature on November 17, 1997, for inclusion
in the Manual of Administration and the creation of a five qualified
member working group to be appointed by the President.
The goal of the policy is to coordinate the selection and purchase
of hardware, software and information management systems in order to
increase compatibility of the systems intergovernmental and
inter-office software allocations; facilitate networking, electronic
data transfer and remote communication; minimize maintenance costs,
downtime and maximize troubleshooting; and make effective
transferable skills.
Nena said that an FSM Software and Information Management working
group has been established to develop minimum specifications for
desktop computers and peripherals, and other general software
applications.
Once established, these specification policies will be applicable
to all departments, offices and agencies of the executive branch of
the National Government; all recipients of public monies.
This policy does not supersede or waive bidding and relevant
Financial Management Act requirements.
