Ms. Weaver noted the importance of insuring that the public's trust and money is not abused. The public's view of the state has changed a good deal. It is important for the state to insure that Rhode Islanders get their money's worth by providing information in a meaningful way. Mr. Wall spoke about the role of today's consumer and its impact on the state's budget. DOC's move to computers in 1989 revolutionized the Department.
New employees expect to use computers in their work.
As with the need to include money for replacement of software and hardware, so is it necessary to insure an adequate number of staff to support state systems. There is tremendous pressure today on MIS staff and budgets. People with the necessary skills are not interested in working within the state's personnel system. This results in the state running systems using consultants, which is costly and dangerous. Reengineering efforts to attract the needed employees must include staying abreast of new technology.