Apps.gov : A US Government Cloud Platform

Interesting:

“…Apps.gov is your source for cloud computing applications designed to help your agency harness the power of today’s technology…”

www.apps.gov is positioning itself as an open platform that provides all kind of cloud services. They are running business apps, productivity apps and social media apps. They are even preparing Cloud IT Services such as online-storage and server processing capacity.

www.apps.gov is an initiative by the GSA, the U.S. General Services Administration:

“…The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) leverages the buying power of the federal government to acquire best value for taxpayers and our federal customers. We exercise responsible asset management. We deliver superior workplaces, quality acquisition services, and expert business solutions. We develop innovative and effective management policies…” [more…]

The website allows government agencies to sign up for the services and includes a FAQ for vendors how to participate.

The FAQ for potential users explains the concepts for SaaS and Cloud Services and indicates very clearly that the services provided “…are currently not certified and accredited as required by the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA)…”

Nevertheless…this is an interesting development in eGovernement.

[thx to colleague Jose E. & Francisco P. for this link]