Information technology (IT) involves the use of computers, storage, networking and other devices to create, process, store and exchange electronic data. IT must be implemented at all levels of government to facilitate e-government. Government IT departments will oversee IT projects, allocate 2% of budgets to IT services and training, and qualify private firms to provide IT consultancy, software development and products. Advances in IT are transforming business and society through the emerging information economy, where information is critical and the basis for competition. IT can help solve pressing issues like education, health, poverty and the environment by developing new ways for non-governmental organizations to leverage local connections.