The Information Services Division (IS) is responsible for the integration of efficient technology practices and policies across most county departments and agencies. As an organization, the Information Services Division consists of various groups that work together to ensure County employees can use technology to complete their tasks. From printing checks to managing e-mail, the people employed in the Information Services Division strive to streamline routine processes and maximize Mendocino County Employee productivity.
Using progressive management techniques, the Information Services Division evaluates the on-going improvements in the technological base used by the County
to meet the demands of the public as well as our in-house needs in a timely and cost-effective manner. Organizational and programmatic efforts provides technical training and support personnel and end-user training to promote the most efficient use of computer technology on the widest possible scale. Information Services serves as the "umbrella organization" for information technologies (IT) for the County and is charged with delivery of ongoing information technology services for all County departments,
including the following:
- Computer Operations
- Network Services
- Communications
- Computer Training
- Application Support and Development
- Desktop Support
- IT Acquisition
- Website Management
- Geographic Information System (GIS)
IS Tech Group
IS Techs are required to possess a great deal of knowledge across all aspects of information technology. These positions require intuitive understanding of computers and software applications. The typical workday of an IS Tech may consist of one or more of the following duties:
- Maintenance and support of desktop workstations
- User support in use of desktop software applications
- Fielding help desk phone calls
- Diagnose, troubleshoot and repair computers and related equipment
- Helping to educate users in computer usage techniques
Network Administrators
Network Administrators are primarily responsible for the efficient operation of County-wide computer network resources. These duties include but are not limited to:
- Administration of the County computer network
- Design and implementation of network topologies
- Monitoring
network usage
- Network security (anti-virus, repelling hacker
attacks, firewall, etc.)
- Implement and administer servers and
server based software
- Providing backup, disaster
recovery/continuity of business services
- Secure connections to
remote sites and internet connections
- Third-level user support
Software Developers / DBA
The Software Developers group is responsible for creating and maintaining software in support of County processes, and performing advanced database administration functions. A developer needs to understand a variety of computer software languages, database methodology and principles, client-server relationships, the process of software development, and the principles of relational databases. Their responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Design, develop and troubleshoot software
applications
- Make recommendations for purchasing software
applications
- Create web-enabled applications for internet and
intranet audiences
- Facilitate the updating of external and internal
web sites
- Translate data into meaningful reports
- Maintain county finance and criminal justice systems
GIS (Geographical Information Services)
The
GIS group is responsible for maintaining geographical data used in the
creation of maps for various uses, including Planning, Transportation,
Emergency Response, and others. Through meticulous data collection
techniques, the GIS group provides the backbone to Mendocino County's
map
making efforts. Their responsibilities include but are
not limited to:
- Technical
support for departments and agencies using GIS data
- Support for Global Positioning Systems
tech support
- Data
collection and geographical analysis
- Cartographic production
Information Services Specialists Group
The Information Services Specialists Group (ISS) is responsible for performing paraprofessional information technology work pertaining to the maintenance and routine administration of computer programs. Their job is to serve as the technical liaison to all County departments and support specialized departmental functions using standard platforms and technologies. An Information Services Specialist understands a variety of computer programs and specialized software for the different County departments, including Criminal Justice, County Property, and Financial systems the County utilizes. Their responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Work with County departments regarding the use of their specialized IT Systems
- Compile and process statistical and AD Hoc data
- Provide ongoing technical support, troubleshoot, research and resolve all issues
- Communicate with customers to identify enhancements and acquisition or retirement of County systems
- Develop and maintain system documentation and instructions
