Pennsylvania's government is ranking in the top of its class, according to a study released last week.

The 2001 Government Performance Project, conducted by Syracuse University, gave Pennsylvania an overall grade of B+ for its governing performance.

"This national study serves as a report card for Pennsylvania state government — and, once again, we're making the grade," Gov. Tom Ridge said in a news release.

The study looked at five areas to measure the quality of state governments: financial management, information technology, human resources management, capital management and managing for resources. Pennsylvania excelled in information technology and financial management.

Pennsylvania received an A- for its financial management practices and for having additional funds available for unexpected circumstances, which the study refers to as the "rainy day fund."

Information technology was another strength for Pennsylvania because of the state's ability to measure costs and benefits for major information and technology projects.

The study mentions problems with dated technology, such as being behind in online transactions.

But it does commend Pennsylvania's proposed $175 million project for new integrated information technology systems in the commonwealth.

"(The category refers to) how well the state has computerized systems of processing and exchanging information," said Dale Jones, an associate professor of public administration at Syracuse. "If it is strong then other areas are strong."

Pennsylvania was among several elite states that received high marks for their performance, Jones added.

Utah, Michigan and Washington received an A- grade for their overall government performances.

Seven other states, in addition to Pennsylvania, received a B+.

The purpose of the study, funded by the Pew Charitable Trusts, was to increase citizens' trust in government, Jones said.

The grades given to each state were based on government documents, surveys filled out by state governments and interviews.

States continue to improve their efforts with their management systems, according to the report.

"Pennsylvania is very, very well-managed in terms of its government," Jones said.