Public Service Commission Policies
Use of Technology
POLICY STATEMENT
Date: February 26, 2022
Purpose:
The Manitoba government recognizes that technology is vital for the public service to carry out sustainable, quality and equitable services and programs to all Manitobans, as well as foster collaboration and innovation that can enhance program and service delivery. At the same time, public servants must use technology in an ethical and responsible manner to ensure public trust. Technology includes hardware such as computers and cellphones, as well as software, programs, and applications including social media platforms, and information technology services and resources.
The use of technology is part of the fundamental workforce management policies under The Public Service Act.
Policy Statement:
The Public Service Commission is committed to sustaining a professional, high-performing, modern public service, and recognizes that technology is a key tool that enables public servants to carry out their work efficiently and effectively.
As outlined in The Public Service Act and related policies, such as The Manitoba Government Code of Conduct, and The Oath or Affirmation of Office Regulation, technology must be used in an appropriate and professional manner. Public servants must act with integrity, accountability and in the public interest when using technology, which includes handling sensitive information in a responsible manner as outlined in The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA), The Personal Health Information Act (PHIA), and the Conflict of Interest policy.
The following policies provide further guidance when using various forms of technology:
- The Employee Network Usage Policy (ENUP) (intranet access required) applies to the use of government-owned networks and technologies.
- The Public Service Commission Social Media Policy applies to the use of social media for government and for personal use.
- The Communication and Engagement Division's Internet and Social Media Policy (intranet access required), and Guidance on the use of social media for government purposes (intranet access required) provides further direction regarding the use of Manitoba government communications, on the Internet or social media pages, which includes all communications of Manitoba government services and programs.
- The Virtual Private Network (VPN) Policy (intranet access required) applies to the use of VPN networks for remote work.
- The Guidelines for the Use of Mobile Devices (intranet access required) outlines expectations when using mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
