USDA implements CCE help desk

The Agriculture Department has implemented help desk support for agencies in the Common Computing Environment.

USDA installed Network Associates Inc.'s Magic Solutions Service Desk for three service center agencies to provide help desk support and systems standardization. Officials say the new application blends seamlessly into their existing tech infrastructure.

The CCE would modernize the field offices of the Farm Service Agency, Rural Development and the Natural Resources Conservation Service by providing a common set of technologies for farmers and USDA workers.

Officials expect the new software to improve customer service and business efficiency through problem management technology. The software will provide support, control and visibility for decision support, and more processes will be automated to streamline information technology inquiries, Network Associates Inc. officials said.

The solution "lets us confidently address and manage the diverse IT service issues with a standardized, Web-based platform," said Scott Snover, USDA's CCE project manager, in a statement. "As we work to modernize our service centers with CCE, we are bringing USDA's services closer to the people and institutions that need them."