Power is all about influence. That was our underlying assumption when we assembled this list of the Power Players of the federal information technology community.

Some people are influential because of their positions: They write policy, craft legislation, approve major projects. But no one made this list solely because of his or her job. Indeed, such people often end up in those positions because of the influence they already wield. Give them power and they know how to use it.

For other individuals on this list, power is not a given. They have no direct influence on the business of government, no signet that directs or redirects the energies of government and industry. But their presence is felt nonetheless. Their voices are heard in the most heated debates and their discernment is sought for the most puzzling problems. They were not handed power, but they have earned it.

Of course, some individuals who are not well-known in the larger community wield considerable influence within their own circles. For the Power Players special report, we have identified four such people in the areas of management, technology, business and policy. Click on the links below to read more.

Any effort to identify power players is bound to spark controversy. You may disagree with our choices or feel we left someone deserving off the list. Either way, we want to hear from you. Send an e-mail to powerplayers@fcw.com and let us know what you think.