Must-know ICT and government terminology

A range of services offered by IT service providers to help organisations develop, integrate, and implement software applications and systems that support their business operations. These services may include requirements analysis, design, development, testing, deployment, and ongoing support and maintenance of applications and systems.

Application Management Support Services (AMSS) refers to the set of activities that are involved in managing, maintaining, and supporting software applications throughout their lifecycle. This includes tasks such as installing, configuring, updating, and monitoring applications to ensure their smooth and reliable operation. AMSS providers are responsible for ensuring that applications are available to users when needed, and for resolving any issues that arise in the course of their use.

A request made by a potential supplier for government funding to undertake a particular project or initiative. This is typically done through a formal application process, which outlines the project proposal, the amount of funding requested, and the expected outcomes and benefits of the project. Applications to Fund are usually assessed against the potential impact of the project, the viability of the proposal, and the capacity of the applicant to deliver the project successfully.

The process of inviting potential suppliers to submit their interest in providing goods or services to the government. This process is usually initiated through a Request for Information (RFI), Request for Quotation (RFQ), or Request for Proposal (RFP), which outlines the requirements and criteria for the procurement.

The APS Capability Review is a process of assessing the capacity and effectiveness of the Australian Public Service (APS) to meet the current and future needs of the government and the community. It is an independent and forward-looking assessment that examines the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to the APS, and provides recommendations for improvement. The review covers a range of areas, such as strategic direction, leadership, culture, governance, workforce planning, and capability development. The APS Capability Review is conducted periodically by the Australian Public Service Commission, and its findings are used to inform the development of policies and initiatives to enhance the performance and accountability of the APS.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) uses advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to simulate human intelligence and reasoning by computer systems. AI technology enables computers to learn from experience and improve performance over time, without being explicitly programmed to do so. AI can be used for natural language processing, image recognition, robotics, predictive analytics, and autonomous systems. AI is often used in combination with other emerging technologies such as cloud computing, big data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to create new products and services and transform business processes.

While as-a-Service is predominantly an ICT industry term, government has embraced it enthusiastically. 

Delivery of a functionality by a vendor on a contractual basis. [X]-as-a-Service generally means that the functionality in question is being delivered through a network rather than being provided locally or on-site, and is almost always delivered through a cloud computing platform. Common examples include: Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS). The broader concept is sometimes referred to as "Anything-as-a-Service" (XaaS).

ASL stands for Average Staffing Level cap, which is a measure used by the Australian Government to control the number of ongoing public sector employees. It represents the maximum number of average ongoing staff that an agency or department can employ in a financial year. The ASL cap is designed to encourage efficiency and fiscal responsibility in the public sector by promoting the optimal use of resources while delivering essential services to the public. The cap is typically set each year as part of the federal budget process and is adjusted to reflect changes in the government's priorities and funding levels.

The process of selling an asset, such as a piece of property or a piece of equipment, in order to generate funds or cash flow for a government agency or organisation. This can be done in order to raise capital, reduce debt, or to streamline operations by disposing of non-core or underperforming assets.

A member of parliament who assists a senior Minister in their portfolio responsibilities. They are appointed by the Prime Minister/Premier and are responsible for assisting the Minister in the management of the policy, programs, and legislation of their portfolio. The Assistant Minister may also represent the Minister in parliament, attend meetings and events on their behalf, and engage with stakeholders and the public to discuss issues and concerns related to their portfolio.