In regard to executive agencies, information technology includes equipment, systems, and subsystems used in automatic acquisition, storage, analysis, evaluation, manipulation, management, movement, control, display, switching, interchange, transmission, or reception of data or information (Code of Federal Regulations, 2006 edition, Title 40, sec. 11101(6)(A)). Those responsible for information technology services see to the maintainance and advancement of equipment and systems. Duties may include administration of systems and networks, creation of computer hardware and software, and data management.
As an economic leader in technology advancements, Maryland possesses a strong information technology support base. This base includes State government agencies and private firms, as well as federal agencies, such as the National Security Agency at Fort George Meade. In 2010, information technology businesses operated more than 2,500 firms, and employed nearly 44,000 workers in Maryland. Maryland also ranked third in the 2010 State New Economy Index which measures economies on multiple factors relating to and including information technology.
Maryland's colleges and universities also help develop advancements and new applications in this field. As well as offering classes in information technology, The Johns Hopkins University maintains the Information Security Institute, which examines and researches protocols and security measures designed to protect the national information infrastructure. The Institute offers classes and seminars, as well as oversees homeland security efforts at the University. Recognized by the National Security Agency, the Institute has been designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance.
At the University of Maryland, College Park, the Decision, Operations and Information Technologies Department conducts research and offers classes, and educational programs. Information system programs at the University's Smith School of Business have received national recognition, consistantly placing at the top of professional surveys. For management information systems, Smith School programs ranked sixth in the nation in the 2009 U.S. News and World Report survey, and the School's information technology program placed eighth according to a 2007 Wall Street Journal/Harris Interactive poll.
In addition, the General Assembly addresses concerns about information technology through the Joint Information Technology and Biotechnology Committee.
© Copyright August 01, 2013 Maryland State Archives