The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is responsible for managing the civil aspects of emergencies affecting the US. FEMA's various management functions are critically dependent on information, which is increasingly supplied electronically. This requires new procedures for storing information and safeguards to guarantee the ability to transmit and receive it. The Integrated Emergency Management System (IEMS) was developed by FEMA to ensure overall program integration. The IEMS is promoting a more complete partnership between the private sector and all levels of government, in addition to strengthening the nation's ability to manage emergencies. The National Emergency Management System (NEMS) was developed to support IEMS by gathering, processing, and exchanging information for emergency management at all government levels. Using new technologies has increased effectiveness and efficiency, and FEMA continues to strive for progress.