The Information & Communications Technology Branch supports the Department in providing and maintaining ICT services which includes the administration of ICT strategic planning, policy development, information services, procurement and distribution of computer hardware and software, network and communications technical support, website development and administration of various information management systems.
In particular the branch plans, implements and manages ICT services and specific applications systems, facilitates data communications, installs and configures PCs and other user end-point devices and maintains LANs (Local Area Networks). It identifies, procures, configures, distributes, and installs all ICT hardware and software solutions and training of staff in computer skills, networking the buildings, and develops policies.
The ICT Branch has 5 specialized sections:
- ICT Support
- Systems Administration
- Network Administration
- Electronics & Communications
- Applications & Solutions Development
The ICT Support Section consists of technical staff trained in Desktop and Software Applications Support. The ICT Helpdesk is the contact point for client/customer service and is responsible for delegating service requests to ICT support staff. The Helpdesk is also responsible for ICT asset procruement and enforcement of the branch's standards and compliance protocols.
The Systems Administration Section is specialized in Server Systems installation, configuration and administration. All centralized services such as file sharing, e-mails, network printers, etc. are managedment by this section.
The Network Administration Section specializes in network infrastructure design and implementation. The section is responsible for installing communication devices and running cabling between communication devices.
The Electronic & Communications Section is a newly established section within the branch. The section is responsible for managing the department's electronic control systems such as VoIP telephony, Security Access Control, etc. The section is also responsible for administering external communications such as internet services, IP-VPN remote office links, etc.
The Applications & Solutions Development Section is specialized in software development. The team of programmers and software engineers are responsible for maintaining all existing database management systems, information management systems, content management systems and any other forms of information management systems owned or leased to the department. The section has the additional responsiblity of research and development of which the team may introduce new software solutions available on the market or solutions developed by the team itself.