1: NIST Validation Process for E-Gov Standards

Provide a formal, streamlined process and central reference site for USG validated (i.e., officially approved) E-Gov standards.

Other Information:

Background: The mission of each E-Gov Initiative and LOB requires deployment of innovative, web-based information technology (IT) services. Standards are required for deployment of E-Gov services in order to ensure the necessary interoperability and security between government agencies/businesses/citizens. To date, some of the E-Gov Initiatives and LOB have adopted specific standards deemed to be necessary for accomplishing their respective missions. In some instances, no suitable private sector consensus standards were available and USG unique standards have been developed and adopted. Due to the innovative nature of the E-Gov services and the lessons learned from initial deployments, changes (e.g., additions, amendments) to some of the adopted standards are occurring on a regular basis (e.g., yearly). Requirements of USG Validation Process: - E-Gov standards (new and revised) are validated promptly (i.e., in days, rather than in weeks or months). -Timely, comprehensive information about all USG validated E-Gov standards is available from one, central official source. - OMB/GSA policy mandates the use of USG validated E-Gov standards for the acquisition and deployment of E-Gov services. Synopsis of USG Validation Process: Analysis models for the selection of private sector consensus standards and for the development of USG unique standards are posted by NIST on the NIST administered web site (Standards.gov) under “E-Gov Standards Resource Center.” In cooperation with the E-Gov Initiatives and LOB, NIST identifies all E-Gov standards that have already been adopted by each E-Gov Initiative and LOB. For each identified standard, the relevant E-Gov Initiative or LOB submits to NIST their answers to the questions in the relevant analysis model, including their analysis of fit with the FEA. Using the posted analysis models, NIST reviews and validates E-Gov standards that have already been adopted by each E-Gov Initiative and LOB. All pertinent information about the initial set of validated E-Gov standards is posted by NIST on the “E-Gov Standards Resource Center.” As each new E-Gov standard is selected or developed by a specific E-Gov Initiative or LOB, the standard and the answers to the questions in the relevant analysis model, including their analysis of fit with the FEA, is submitted to NIST. Using the relevant analysis model, NIST reviews and validates each submitted E-Gov standard. All pertinent information about newly validated E-Gov standards is posted by NIST on the “E-Gov Standards Resource Center.” On an annual basis NIST, polls all E-Gov Initiatives and LOB to confirm all of the posted information about validated E-Gov standards.

Indicator(s):

Indicator:1

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