The Austrian Government is implementing an “Electronic File” system (Elektronischen Akt, or ELAK) designed to enable internal government communications to be carried out electronically. Already in use in seven ministries, the system will be extended to all ministries by the end of the year and then to the entire federal administration.

Austria is claiming a leadership role in the implementation of “paperless government” with the implementation of the ELAK system. Combining a document management system with a workflow system, workgroup applications and an archive, ELAK is designed to enable administrative units to electronically record, save, find and re-work information, thereby supporting the transfer of paper files to electronic files for all inter-ministerial processes at federal level. A core element of the Austrian e-government strategy, it is due to be used in all sectors of the federal administration and to substantially boost productivity while supporting service improvement.

The project is built on the following principles:
• The electronic file is becoming the original.
• Signatures in the file are provided electronically.
•Incoming paper mail is scanned, except for large amounts.
• Paper prints of the complete file can be produced, in order to remain able to communicate with public authorities not equipped with electronic filing.
• The existing office system will be implemented electronically.
• Standard software must be used as technical basis.