Definitions

These definitions mean to provide AWS builders, architects, and technologists with a starting point for commonly used terms and phrases used within the government sector.  Specifics of the terms and how they are applied can vary by jurisdiction. 

Public Sector: The portion of the economy composed of all levels of government and government-controlled entities, usually defined in legislation or by Administrative Orders.

Digital Nations: A collection of ten governments committed to digital reform and best practices. Usually led the by the national digital government unit or Chief Digital Officer for the jurisdiction.

Government versus government: Government (with a capital G) refers to the political system or form by which a country or community is administered and regulated. The Government is supported by the public sector to fulfill the obligations of that jurisdiction and to represent the best interests of the people served. The public sector is often referred to as the government (lower case g).

Open Government: The governing doctrine which maintains that citizens have the right to access the documents and proceedings of government to allow for effective public oversight.  This doctrine includes transparency, public reporting, and accountability mechanisms, and is often inclusive of public participation in improving public services and policies. 

Open Government Partnership: A collection of over 75 countries committed to open government measures. Usually led by a central government department responsible for transparency and accountability, such as a Department for the Attorney General, although it’s sometimes led by the head of state.

Protection of Civil Rights and Privacy:  The degree to which government entities are required to verify that information relating to citizens collected and held by Government is secure and confidential, that the privacy rights of individuals are not breached by governments or non-governmental actors, and that a range of civil rights are protected. 

Accountability: Enabling public, parliamentary, independent, and internal oversight of government activities.

Access to information: Mechanisms that govern the release of government-held information into the public domain. 

Open Information or Data: Data (or information) that is provided publicly to be freely accessed, used, or shared. Includes mechanisms to encourage non-government actors and other governments to reuse government information and data.

Jurisdiction: A jurisdiction is an area with a set of laws under the control of a system of courts or government entity that are different from neighboring areas. A jurisdiction might be at a national/federal level, a provincial/state/territory level, or a local level. Countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United States have three levels of government. Other countries, such as New Zealand, have two levels. It’s important to be aware of the jurisdictional context of the government customer.

Public or government services: The services provided by the government or public sector to the public. Programs intended to improve public services usually refer to raising the quality of services to the public, making them more accessible, end user friendly, inclusive, and effective at driving policy outcomes.

Transparency: Promote corporate and operational accountability, including programs that encourage transparency and ethical conduct, while tackling corruption.