Department of Information Systems

Rockingham County’s computing environment incorporates the client-server model as its basis for implementing software solutions. In order to facilitate that approach, a robust switched and routed Ethernet-based LAN/WAN network has been installed between county governmental agencies. Software solutions implemented in agency offices are now shared with other agency offices to increase overall operating efficiencies. The Department uses a combination of in-house custom developed software, using fourth generation programming tools, and commercial off the shelf (COTS) products to achieve departmental, agency, and/or countywide goals and objectives.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Information Systems Department is to contribute to the overall efficiency and productivity of county government by implementing cost-effective technologies that will enhance the services provided to county residents.

Goals and Objectives

1. Utilize teamwork to provide a consistently high level of customer service that includes timely and accurate responses to customer requests.

2. Continually explore emerging technologies and provide a framework for evaluating those technologies for possible implementation.

3. Utilize technology to provide access to data and information for county staff and county residents.

4. Maintain a computer infrastructure that is both reliable and capable of conducting county business operations now and in the future.

5. Partner with other county agencies in exploring ways to improve business functions by implementing best available, cost-effective, technology solutions.

Service Areas

The Department is a full-service computer operation that provides customer service in the following areas:
Project management
In-house developed custom written software solutions
Network administration
Web site development
Help desk
Hardware repair and installation
Software support
Procurement services for computers and computer related products

Outstanding customer service is always one of the department’s primary goals. As a team, the department strives to minimize the disruptions experienced by the agencies we support due to software and/or hardware issues. The department firmly believes that in order to provide effective and efficient services to county citizens, computer-related issues cannot encroach on the provision of those services.

Agencies and Offices Supported

The Department of Information Systems supports the following agencies or offices:

County Administration Finance and Purchasing
Community Development Public Works
Fire and Rescue Recreation
Commissioner of the Revenue Treasurer
Registrar Human Resources
Regional Jail Sheriff’s Office
Commonwealth Attorney’s Office Court Services Unit
Circuit Court School Board Personnel Office
Human and Health Services Office

There are many diverse and unique software applications associated with the support of the above listed agencies or offices. Whenever possible, department staff, along side agency or office staff, is trained in the use of installed applications to better serve agency or office staff. Cross training of department staff is also utilized to ensure a high level of customer service is available to agency or office staff.

The Future

The biggest challenge facing information technology providers is the accelerated pace of change in the industry and how those changes can be used to meet end-user requirements. Technological advancements can be expensive and complex, however, by enabling the workforce to provide a higher level of service, costs can be reduced. In order to maximize the benefits of newer technologies in a cost-effective manner, adopting those technologies into an organization’s current infrastructure must be done judiciously. Cost-effective methods, those that recognize expense, complexity, and end-user expectations, must be used to deliver information and services when and where they are needed.