INTERMEDIUM RESOURCES

Must-know ICT and government terminology

A glossary of information and communication technology (ICT) and public sector terms to help suppliers more credibly engage with government.

Term Definition
Digital

The use of technology to transform traditional business processes via new digital products and services. This may include the use of software, mobile apps, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other technologies to enhance business operations, improve customer engagement, and drive innovation. In app development, digital refers to the use of software and digital technologies to create innovative applications that can be accessed and used by users on various digital devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. Includes the building of non-enterprise level apps and Whole of Government Platforms for provision of citizen services.

Digital Divide

The gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not. It is a phenomenon that results in unequal access to information, communication, and economic opportunities. In Australia, the Digital Divide can refer to disparities in digital literacy and access to technology among different demographic groups, including Indigenous Australians, people living in remote areas, and low-income households. Bridging the Digital Divide is an important goal for governments and seeking to promote digital inclusion and ensure that all citisens can benefit from the opportunities presented by digital technologies.

Digital Economy Strategy

A government plan or policy that outlines how the country can leverage digital technologies and innovation to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the delivery of government services to citisens. This strategy seeks to establish a framework for the digital economy by addressing a range of issues such as the availability of digital infrastructure, the development of digital skills, the creation of digital jobs, the promotion of digital innovation, and the protection of digital privacy and security.

Digital Service Expectations

The standards and levels of service that individuals and businesses expect when interacting with government agencies and services through digital channels. This includes factors such as ease of use, accessibility, responsiveness, reliability, and security.

Digital Services

The provision of online services, applications, and information through digital channels, such as websites, mobile applications, and social media platforms. These services can include online forms, e-commerce transactions, online appointment bookings, social media engagement, and access to information and resources.

Digital Transformation

The use of digital technologies and methodologies to fundamentally change how organisations operate and deliver value to customers, employees, and other stakeholders, often through the adoption of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other advanced technologies.

Digital Twin

A virtual model or replica of a physical object or system that is used to simulate and analyse its behavior, performance, and processes.

Digitalisation

The process of converting physical or manual processes into digital ones, enabling new service delivery models that provide greater efficiency, personalisation, and accessibility.

Digitisation

The process of converting analog information into digital form, which can then be processed, stored, and transmitted electronically. In an ICT context, digitisation often refers to the transformation of physical documents, such as paper records, into electronic formats, such as PDF or digital images, through the use of document scanning technologies.

Direct Negotiation

A procurement method where a buyer directly negotiates with a supplier to reach an agreement on the terms and conditions of a contract. This procurement method is typically used for small and simple procurement requirements, where the buyer can readily identify a suitable supplier and negotiate directly with them.