Computer Uses in Government Offices

Like businesses, state and federal government offices use computers. Government employees must set up meetings and distribute various reports. Computers help these workers expedite these tasks, as most government-issued computers contain numerous software programs like word processing, spreadsheets and database management programs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Computer uses in government offices also include various e-mail functions, payment distribution, record keeping and even coordinating mailings.

Government offices that have computers usually have some type of email system in place. Emails enable government workers to compose, send or read emails from other workers and people outside the company. For example, a state unemployment office employee might answer a person's question about eligibility by email. This might inevitably save the worker time, as she would not need to speak with the person by phone. Government employees might also use emails to distribute copies of reports or presentations.

State and federal offices use computers to distribute payments to people. These payments can be sent electronically like most Social Security payments, or by check. For example, the Internal Revenue Service will usually issue checks to people for refunds. Similarly, state treasury offices often send state refund checks. Government offices also use computers to send or print disability, Medicare, Medicaid and other payments. The checks are usually produced on various printers in the government offices.

The government often hires computer programmers or database managers to maintain records of employees and citizens, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Most of these records are kept in large databases, which can store records of people's gender, age, address, phone number and other important information. Government offices also keep records of dates, such as when people file taxes, and amounts that are due and paid. Computer record keeping is an essential function for government offices because of the need for accuracy and timeliness--like for Medicaid payments.

Some government agencies or offices might use computers to produce various direct-mail advertising campaigns. Government workers might produce these various documents on their computer, then have them professionally done through their printing office. Government workers will use various name and address files to arrange the mailing, then print them directly on envelopes or brochures. For example, the United States Postal Service often uses direct-mail marketing programs to promote its various products and services, such as commemorative stamps or Express Mail.