5. Ensure Security, Privacy, and Trust
The Postal Service continues ongoing efforts to ensure the security of mail, the privacy of its customers, and the trust of the American public. In 2007, it was again recognized in the Privacy Trust Study of the U.S. Government as the agency most trusted by Americans to protect their information. The study was conducted by the Ponemon Institute, which is dedicated to responsible information and privacy management in business and government. The mail remains a safe, trusted, vital communications medium providing services Americans appreciate.
To avoid security breaches, the Postal Service continues to apply a number of controls over its computer equipment and data systems. Encryption is incorporated on workstations and portable devices with sensitive data. The controls also require a review of all persons who have access to sensitive data and the type of access they have. New policies place controls on personal information resources brought into postal facilities and prohibit use of non-postal devices to access the Postal Service intranet or to store Postal Service information. Guidelines were issued encouraging managers to limit the assignment of laptop computers to employees.
Improve Service — Summary of Priorities
- Complete the design and implement a new, hybrid service performance measurement system for all mailing services. Pilot and refine the system to begin external reporting in 2009.
- Communicate revised service standards to establish clear expectations and accountability. Update processes to meet those new expectations. Drive continuous improvement in service by using data to pinpoint opportunities and reduce variability.
- Continue progress toward Total Mail Visibility. Speed customer adoption of IM barcodes and electronic documentation. Maximize scan rates and improve the availability and use of data.
- Work with the mailing industry to develop more accurate, up-to-date mailing lists. Reduce undeliverable-as-addressed mail by ensuring that addresses are current, correct, and complete.
- Provide a convenient, high-quality customer experience at all points of service.
- Continue to earn the customers‘ complete trust in the safety and security of the mail.