Why e-government? Citizens and businesses want to be able to take care of government related matters in a simple manner wherever and whenever is most convenient. Therefore authorities are collectively improving their service provision by means of smart and secure IT solutions. This development is known as "e-government". What does e-government enable? E-government enables you to apply for a permit with the local or regional council online and in the comfort of your own home. During your house search you can consult Land Registry data online. With your own DigiD-login code you can access government services. A doctor can use a personalized UZI pass to consult electronic patient files. These are but a few examples. Some are already reality, others are in advanced stages of development. The e-government is already a fact and it is buzzing with activity. ICTU and e-government The e-government is ICTU's work domain. ICTU is commissioned by authorities to work on the above mentioned IT issues of a generic nature. ICTU's aim is to maximize the government's IT objectives through the collaboration of authorities. This means that ICTU is involved with policy development and implementation: policies are transformed into tangible projects. These are issues which are part of the government's domain.