We have all heard the old adage that the value of a car drops the moment you pull it off the lot, but do new IT systems start to decay the moment they are turned on? Not always, because many of these systems have been put in place to create savings for states through consolidation, virtualization, and the use of emerging technologies that have added value to the enterprise. But like any aging technology, the applications, databases, servers, network appliances and other systems may require a formidable amount of nurturing during the IT life cycle.
A recent article titled CIOs in Search of IT Simplicity highlights that “tactical moves include whittling down the number of IT suppliers you count as essential, which streamlines more aspects of the operation than technology and support choices do.” The article goes on to include the benefits that “may lead to fewer contract negotiations, better pricing and stronger relationships.”
Now let’s take a step back and think about how states can vet the timing for these “tactical moves.” States should start with a regular review of the business needs and requirements of an organization, refresh cycles and consideration of new technologies, solutions, and designs that can be leveraged at an enterprise level. In addition, a regularly defined schedule and process for reviewing legacy systems can help ensure that project innovations are appropriate and suitable for the enterprise architecture context. Easier said than done! For states, these moves have been tough in recent years because of the fiscal crisis. Legacy systems that would have been put out to pasture are still around because the budget couldn’t accommodate the replacement or renovation.
Vitality is dependent upon an active engagement process that acts as a communication channel for life cycle management and education on emerging strategies. Early communication aids vendors in an open and transparent way as states begin to contemplate needed changes. As the founder of the IT Excellence Institute has said, “because every piece of IT has a rate of decay, CIOs should create a life plan for each one.”
Put this on your radar and don’t miss our issue brief to be released soon.The NASCIO State IT Procurement Modernization Committee, in collaboration with TechAmerica and the National Association of State Procurement Officials, plan to release an issue brief the second week in July on “Leveraging Enterprise Architecture for Improved IT Procurement.” The brief will be the first in a series exploring state IT procurement reforms and highlighting best practices at the state level. “Leveraging Enterprise Architecture” will include recommendations such as simplifying IT investments and reducing complexity, streamlining negotiations and contract management, and establishing standards for IT procurement. Please check the NASCIO publications page on July 10th to view this document.