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Governance in Interoperability is Key to Success

NCJ Number
224531
Date Published
October 2008
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This paper briefly discusses the key to interoperability success: implementing an information technology governance structure (thoroughly understanding the business needs prior to implementing technical solutions).
Abstract
To start the interoperability process, the right pieces must be put in place first. One of the key challenges an agency faces in providing interoperability-related technical assistance is the desire to implement technical solutions before thoroughly understanding the business needs. The agency must first define the existing communication and information sharing needs. This is followed by getting the right stakeholders to make it happen and to make a firm commitment. It is then necessary to define the operational needs and apply the technology. In essence, technology is not the issue; governance is the foundation to interoperability success. An information technology governance structure is composed of the processes and organization mechanisms used by the agency to accomplish its overarching strategic goals and ideas.