Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency

Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency

The Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (CCTA) was a government agency in the United Kingdom responsible for providing computer and telecommunications services to various government departments. It played a crucial role in the development and implementation of information technology systems within the public sector.

History

The CCTA was established in 1972 as a result of the increasing need for centralized computer and telecommunications services across government departments. Its primary objective was to improve efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of public services through the use of technology.

Services

The agency provided a wide range of services to government departments, including:

- IT infrastructure management: The CCTA was responsible for managing the computer and telecommunications infrastructure of various government departments. This involved the procurement, installation, and maintenance of hardware and software systems.

- IT project management: The CCTA played a crucial role in managing and overseeing IT projects within the public sector. It provided guidance and support to government departments in the planning, execution, and evaluation of IT initiatives.

- IT security: The agency was responsible for ensuring the security of government computer systems and networks. It developed and implemented security policies and procedures to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access or breaches.

- IT training and support: The CCTA offered training programs and support services to government employees to enhance their IT skills and knowledge. This helped in the effective utilization of technology in day-to-day operations.

Achievements

The CCTA achieved several notable milestones during its existence. Some of the key achievements include:

- Introduction of the PRINCE2 project management methodology: The agency developed the PRINCE2 methodology, which became a widely adopted standard for project management not only within the public sector but also in various industries worldwide.

- Establishment of the ITIL framework: The CCTA played a significant role in the development of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL), a set of best practices for IT service management. ITIL has become a global standard for managing IT services effectively.

- Implementation of the Government Secure Intranet (GSi): The agency successfully implemented the GSi, a secure network that connected various government departments. This facilitated secure communication and data sharing among government entities.

Legacy

In 2000, the CCTA merged with the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) to form the Office of Government Commerce and the Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (OGC CCTA). This merger aimed to streamline and improve the delivery of IT services within the public sector.

The OGC CCTA continued to build upon the achievements of its predecessor, focusing on promoting best practices in project management, IT service management, and procurement. In 2011, the OGC CCTA was integrated into the Cabinet Office, further consolidating its role in driving efficiency and effectiveness in government IT.

See also

- Government Digital Service - Government Communications Headquarters - National Health Service Information Authority

External links

• Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (archived)
• Office of Government Commerce (archived)