Exam 1: Section 7: Providing Government Services and Information Electronically - Practice Questions

What was the main objective of the 2002 "E-Government Act"?

a. promulgate requirements for encryption of sensitive government data

b. require all federal agencies to publish their external financial statements online

c. require federal agencies to use secure web-based technology to enhance citizen access to government services

d. require common, technical internet protocols among the federal government and all state governments

Answer: C

The E-Government Act is intended to make government service more transparent, citizen-oriented, user-friendly and accessible, and to make it easier for citizens to communicate with and participate in government.

Which federal agency houses the Office of E-Government and Information Technology (E-Gov)?

a. U.S. Department of the Treasury

b. National Institute of Standards and Technology

c. U.S. Office of Management and Budget (0MB)

d. U.S. Department of Commerce

Answer: C

The Office of E-Government and Information Technology (EGov), is part of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (0MB).

Name at least three criteria federal agencies are required to use to measure the performance of their e-government initiatives.

Answer: Suitable performance criteria include the impact of e-government in helping agencies fulfill strategic goals; customer satisfaction and customer service; productivity in providing e-government services; and incorporation of commercial best practices.

What federal agency provides supply schedules that may be used by state, local, and tribal governments to acquire electronic hardware, software and related professional services?

a. U.S. General Services Administration

b. National Institute of Standards and Technology

c. U.S. Department of the Treasury

a. U.S. Office of Management and Budget

Answer: A

This list is maintained by the U.S. General Services Administration.

What is the term for a technology that enables continual updates to web-based information and enables a user's web browser to alert the user when updates are posted?

Answer: This technology is known as an "RSS" feed. The acronym stands for "really simple syndication."

Which one of the following is not an appropriate guideline for avoiding ethical lapses related to use of social media?

a. Do not discuss non-public agency or bureau related information unless passwords or other privacy controls are in place.

b. Do not engage in vulgar or abusive language, personal attacks of any kind, or offensive terms targeting individuals or groups.

c. Do not endorse political parties, candidates, or groups.

d. Assume that any content you post may be considered in the public domain, will be available for a long period of time, and can be published or discussed outside your or the agency's control

Answer: A

Even when passwords or other privacy controls are in place, non-public information about the agency or bureau should not be discussed using social media.

Which agency publishes standards for electronic encryption to protect "personally identifiable information" (PII)?

Answer: The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) publishes standards for electronic encryption to protect "personally identifiable information" (PII).