In the federal government there is no direct profit motive. Agencies traditionally build major automated information systems from functional requirements. Requirements come from computer and communications staffers, who operate within specific business interest areas. Increasingly, managers and technical experts have acquired procurement authority. These purchases often fill stop-gap needs as broader requirements are gathered.
Agencies seek to implement IT in direct response to their business requirements.
The federal market is technology-driven. The federal government was once a spawning ground for unique technical requirements and specifications. Beginning with the National Performance Review in 1993, the government has enacted a complete overhaul of its IT procurement, regulatory and management structures. This overhaul is well into its substantive phase. The U.S. federal government has long functioned as one of the leading advocates of open technology standards.