Policy Bulletin

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What is new/changed?

Commissioner's Directive 226 on the Use of Electronic Networks has been promulgated.

Why was the policy created?

Treasury Board requires that government agencies promulgate policy on the use of their respective electronic networks.

What is the purpose of the change?

The policy seeks to encourage the use of electronic networks by providing employees with a clear understanding of:

• acceptable uses of CSC's corporate network;
• what constitutes unlawful and unacceptable conduct while using the network;
• key responsibilities;
• consequences of failing to abide by policy; and
• monitoring practices used to ensure compliance with policy and to maintain system performance and integrity.

How was it developed?

Consultation occurred along several different lines. Initial input was provided by the Operations and Services Sub-Committee. Benchmarking of various government departments followed. Consultation with Executive Committee members took place this past summer on the recommendation of the Information Management Committee. Consultation was coordinated at the regional level by Regional Administrators of Policy and Planning and Regional Chiefs of Informatics. Issues related to the union's use of CSC's network for union business are the subject of ongoing negotiations headed by the Assistant Commissioner, Personnel and Training.

Accountability?

All authorized users of electronic networks will be accountable for their conduct. In addition, the policy outlines various management accountabilities related to the administration of CSC's network.

Who will be affected by the policy?

All users will be affected by the policy, including contract employees and volunteers. Offenders are specifically prohibited from using CSC's electronic network.

Expected cost?

There are no direct costs related to the implementation of this policy.

Other impacts?

Work is currently underway to develop related policy. Specific areas include the use of electronic mail, IT security, authorization and management of system accounts and monitoring practices.