The importance of sound government IT project implementation is on full display here in D.C. Congress is calling for heads, but beyond an initial call for IT procurement reform by the President and some existing proposals from Rep. Issa (R-CA), little substantive discussion of reform is occurring. It’s clear from the 2013 State CIO survey that NASCIO members are not enamored with the IT Procurement process at the state level, either. Let’s just keep in mind government IT can mean some very cool stuff. So what haven't you already heard this week? Read on...
Key Takeaway: Commerce Touts Data Standardization and Sharing
On Thursday, the Department of Commerce rolled out its policy agenda. A key policy priority was harnessing data, including information sharing and “development of open data frameworks and standards that improve data access, discovery, and analysis—while continuing to protect privacy and security.” This policy point aligns with major policy priorities of NASCIO, including cybersecurity, as well as the promotion of NIEM and other data standards. For more on the “Open for Business Agenda,” click here.
Other Buzz:
ICYMI - 2014 State CIO Top Ten: Last week, NASCIO released the State CIO Top Ten Policy and Technology Priorities for 2014. Perhaps not surprisingly, security was at or near the top of CIO’s mind for both policy and technology priorities. For a great analysis, check out NASCIO Executive Director Doug Robinson’s blog post from last week.
Don't expect much from Congress: This is more common wisdom than news at this point. That said, any sliver of hope for major action, from cybersecurity to immigration, are quickly dying. Investigations into the Health Insurance Exchange roll-out and political posturing is taking over hopes of accomplishing anything major on even the most pressing issues such as passing the budget or farm bill. Politico has a good summary, if you can stomach it. Just a reminder, the federal government is only funded for two more months (through January 15) and the debt limit is suspended until February 7.
Your Weekly Techbytes:
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White House Announces Big Data Partnerships
5 New Approaches to Government Procurement
5 Reasons Security is Back as the Top CIO Priority