§ 52:18A-189 — Data processing; duties

With respect to data processing, the administration or the department, as the case may be, shall: a. Foster and direct the establishment and consolidation of information processing centers throughout the State in order to achieve economies in the use of information processing facilities; b. Develop, promulgate and maintain a Statewide master plan for the economic and effective use of information processing facilities; c. Direct and conduct periodic effectiveness audits of the various facilities comprising the State's information processing capability; d. Determine whether State agencies are prepared to make effective use of consultants prior to those consultants being solicited or engaged to alter, improve or establish methods or procedures involving information processing; e. Monitor the progress of consultants in order to assure that their recommendations and performance are consistent with Statewide objectives of efficiency and economy; f. Review requests for the use of commercial service organizations and direct the accomplishment of the required tasks by State facilities wherever deemed advisable; g. Be responsible, with the using agency, for selection and acquisition decisions taking into account the necessity for encouraging competition through solicitation of proposals from qualified vendors; and h. Determine the advisability of the acquisition and use of specific software packages. L.1984, c. 34, s. 12.