Cloud policy of Iceland published

Cloud computing/solutions increase security of data storage, improve services and promote innovation. This is stated in the Cloud Policy of the Icelandic public sector. 

The purpose of the policy is to set out and achieve consistent goals in the use of cloud solutions and their implementation within the public sector. Cloud solutions are already in use by many public entities, making it important that efforts are coordinated for optimization and increased security. The policy includes three objectives: 

• Increased security of information systems and data 

• Better services that are efficient and fast 

• More innovation by public bodies 

The emphasis on digital services and user-centered service design has increased the demand for fast and efficient service by public entities. Cloud solutions will shorten the delivery time of IT services and promote faster, more efficient, and secure development and digital services. Cloud services also open up new applications, including in the fields of artificial intelligence and deeper data analysis, which would otherwise be difficult or impossible to exploit. 

A draft policy on the use of cloud solutions was published in the government consultation portal twice, and the cybersecurity council has been involved in the preparation. The technology environment is rapidly evolving and so the strategy will be kept under review. 

The policy affects other public policies and policy decisions in this field. It is based on the Government's Action Plan for the Promotion of Digital Services, which was approved in May 2019, and published in July 2021 as Iceland‘s Digital Policy. The policy is further supported by other factors, such as the digital advancement of state entities, core services of Digital Iceland, the Central Public Procurement Office‘s dynamic procurement process for cloud hosting, and the development of a Center of Excellence that will provide advice and guidance on the implementation of cloud solutions, and, in particular, the willingness of state entities to take advantage of cloud solutions with increased security, efficiency, and innovation. 

Following the publication of the policy, an action plan will be presented that supports its goals and serves as a guiding light for public entities in continuing coordinated development and planning of the use of cloud solutions in public sector entities in Iceland. 

The implementation of the policy and actions is with the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs in close collaboration with government agencies, other ministries, municipalities, the general public, NGOs, and companies. The Association of Local Authorities in Iceland has adhered to the policy on behalf of municipalities.