In today’s difficult economy, government executives need to have greater understanding of the organizations they manage - particularly the hidden costs of IT software. Software costs can total $hundreds of $ thousands in small organizations - and $ millions in large ones. Costs of inefficiencies can be much greater. Below are discussed a few ‘Hidden Secrets’ to increasing Government Accountability and Efficiency and the benefits of an Independent Software Assessment (ISAs.

Accountability – Understanding true costs of software is something that few Chief Executives know anything about. In addition to the ‘initial costs’ , most software programs include an ‘annual maintenance agreement’ and an ‘annual license’ . Many software maintenance agreements can start at 20% but that can be as high as 30% the original purchase - costing as much as the original software in as few as three years.

Understanding true efficiency or inefficiency of your software benefits both the end users (employees) as well as citizens and taxpayers. Too often, collaboration between departments is limited to poor functionality, which also decreases inefficiency, and can negatively affect citizen services.

Cost Containment – Agencies are dynamic. Software programs are static (unless you have a universal Update Agreement). Because you agency changes over time, so do the needs of your various departments. Most agencies will rely on the purchased software well beyond the changing needs of the organization. Identifying the appropriate changes in organizational functions over time, and examining current software capabilities can significantly contain and reduce costs (software expenses, employee time and personnel costs).

Enhanced Services – Determining whether you have invested in the most appropriate software tools leads to change. Changes in software can provide employees with the tools to effectively represent and deliver the tasks of government (and save greater time and $).

Increase Productivity – Software assessments can lead to an increase the productivity and efficiency of existing personnel and provide policy makers with essential management information.

Risk Management – Software assessments can lower your agency’s exposure to financial and legal riskand assure proper retention of valuable information and records.

Barry Strock is the nation’s foremost expert in govenrment software - ranging from software requiring security clearance (law enforcement, FBI, etc) to local government utilities, and more.

David A Evertsen is the CEO and Principal of Municipal Solutions, llc (US) and Municipal Solutions, ltd (UK). Municipal Solutions consultancies provide hope and innovative solutions for better government and quality of life. He has +17 years experience helping government and industry.