A glossary of information and communication technology (ICT) and public sector terms to help suppliers more credibly engage with government.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Hardware Support | The services provided to ensure that computer hardware such as desktops, laptops, servers, printers, and other devices are operating properly. This involves identifying and resolving hardware problems and issues, performing regular maintenance and updates, installing and configuring hardware components, and ensuring that the hardware is compatible with other systems and software. |
| Hardware Unspecified | Physical components of a computer or other electronic device, including the central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage devices, input/output devices (such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor), and any other physical components that make up the device. Hardware is the tangible and visible part of the computer system that enables users to interact with software and data. Examples of hardware include desktop computers, laptops, servers, smartphones, tablets, printers, and other electronic devices. |
| Head of Agency | The most senior public servant within a government agency or department. The head of agency is responsible for the overall management and administration of the agency, and is accountable to the relevant Minister and the government. The head of agency also represents the agency in interactions with other government entities, stakeholders, and the public, and is responsible for managing the agency's resources, including budget, staffing, and assets. |
| Health | Agencies responsible for managing and delivering healthcare services and programs to the public. In Australia, the Department of Health is the primary health agency at the federal level, responsible for developing and implementing health policies and programs, and regulating and funding healthcare services. At the state and territory level, there are also health agencies responsible for delivering health services and programs to the local population. These agencies may include health departments, hospital and health services, and primary health networks. |
| Help Desk | A central point of contact within an organisation that provides technical assistance and support to users who are experiencing problems with hardware, software, or other computer-related issues. |
| Hosting | The process of storing and serving websites, applications, or data on a remote server that is accessed via the internet. Hosting services can be provided by a third-party company that manages and maintains the servers and other infrastructure required for hosting, or it can be done in-house by an organisation that has its own servers and IT staff. Hosting can come in different forms such as shared hosting, dedicated hosting, and cloud hosting. |
| Human Resource Information System | A Human Resource Information System (HRIS) is a software system designed to manage human resource functions such as personnel tracking, benefits administration, payroll, time and attendance, and performance evaluation. It allows HR professionals to efficiently manage employee information and automate HR processes, resulting in increased productivity and reduced administrative costs. |
| Human Services | Agencies responsible for delivering a range of social welfare and support programs to individuals and families. These programs include social security payments such as pensions and allowances, as well as child support services, family and relationship support, and disability services. |
| Hybrid Work | A work arrangement that allows employees to split their time between working from a traditional office space and working remotely, often from home. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of hybrid work models across many government agencies and organisations. |
| ICT | The sector involved in the development, production, and distribution of information and communication technologies, products, and services. |