From possibility to performance: California’s CDO explains how to design data science projects that can make a difference
With citizen demands rising, America’s urbanization and growth continue to upend the traditional flow of government, a fact leaving officials disoriented but determined to uncover modern tools to expand and diversify services.
Implementing artificial intelligence in your government program? Here’s where you should start.
When it comes to implementing and utilizing artificial intelligence in government programs, what should be top of mind for officials? According to Jennifer Watkins, managing principal at strategy firm Anewd.ai, program executives should “begin with the end in mind.” The GovReport Host Christina Gagnier talks with Watkins about various challenges and how to achieve success in the public sector. Watch the 10-minute interview here.
Improvements to CDT’s Project Approval Lifecycle Coming in 2022
Better planning results in better project outcomes. That's the impetus behind the California Department of Technology's (CDT's) Project Approval Lifecycle (PAL), a framework that's been in place for a number of years "to improve the quality, value and likelihood of success for IT projects undertaken by the state of California," according to the CDT's Statewide Information Management Manual. And in recent years, officials noticed that the framework process needs to be more adaptive, agile and nimble.
Amy Tong Appointed Director at Office of Digital Innovation
State CIO and California Department of Technology Director Amy Tong has been appointed to a new post, to serve as director of the Office of Digital Innovation, according to an announcement from the Governor's Office. Starting Jan. 1, 2022, Tong will move to the new position, formerly occupied by Udaya Patnaik, who was appointed to the position in May 2020. Deputy CIO Russ Nichols will assume the role of acting CIO.
Q&A: California’s CIO and CISO reveal next steps for the state’s new cybersecurity strategy
Since Gov. Gavin Newsom announced California’s first state-wide cybersecurity strategy last month, IT officials have been promoting the plan as something that will do more than increase security, streamline operations, or even cut costs. Officials said the strategy, known as Cal-Secure, lays the foundation for the future of California’s cybersecurity defense.
Commentary: California’s Water Shortage Was Created by a Lack of Leadership, Not Mother Nature
Our state’s system of reservoirs and canals was at one time designed to provide a reliable water supply for California homes, businesses, and farms for three or more dry years. Just two years ago, following a slightly above average wet winter, that system was at full capacity. Now, almost every single reservoir is currently below 50% capacity, with several in the 10%-26% percent level, and even the experts are alarmed.
A Look at California’s New Cybersecurity Roadmap
California’s cybersecurity journey is full of setbacks and successes, hard tumbles and tenacious wins. In every sense, it’s a coming-of-age story, where growth is driven as much by loss as achievement. In this evolution, the Golden State is about to take its next big leap.
California Department of Technology Hires Chief Product Officer
The California Department of Technology (CDT) has just hired California's first-ever Chief Product Officer, veteran technology professional Michael Cave.
What Civic Tech Means in 2021: An Interview with Code for America CEO Amanda Renteria
Civic tech is evolving, and with that change, so is Code for America. For the last decade, the non-profit has been a prover and promoter of civic tech, the idea government can be as agile and effective as any Silicon Valley startup.
Tech leader Tim O’Reilly says this key IT ingredient will make or break social policies in 2021
O'Reilly said that when it comes to social policies and programs, the litmus test for effective government is the capacity for implementation. Even in our skeptical and partisan world, O'Reilly said efficient implementation has an uncanny and indisputable power to build faith in new ideas and change beliefs.
Can California get ahead of IT project failures?
California government is trying to get ahead of state IT project failures, said Chief Information Officer Amy Tong last week at a budget hearing.
Digital future envisioned in governor’s budget
In his 2013 book “Citizenville: How to Take the Town Square Digital and Reinvent Government,” California Gov. Gavin Newsom, laid out a bold vision for transformation of the state’s aging – and often failing – technology infrastructure. The goal was to improve how state services function and are delivered to better meet the needs of state government and of Californians.
California chief data officer announces statewide data strategy
The mantra “the strategy is delivery” frequently appears in the civic tech and data space. And while the delivery of a strategy is important, that alone is not enough.
Newsom Orders Ban on Gas-Fueled Vehicles by 2035
Governor Gavin Newsom today (9/23) called for a ban on the sale of new gasoline-fueled vehicles beginning in 2035. Newsom said he is directing the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to establish regulations requiring that all new cars and passenger trucks sold in California in 2035 be zero-emission vehicles.
Sacramento Municipal Utilities District Names Lau as New CEO and GM
Paul Lau, a 38-year SMUD veteran, has been named to succeed Arlen Orchard as the utility’s chief executive officer and general manager. SMUD's announcement can be found here.
Christman appointed to oversee California’s public health data operation
Veteran data expert and former department CIO Scott Christman has been appointed to oversee California’s public health data operation, the program that tracks birth, death and marriage certifications, among other things. The announcement came after last week's high-profile COVID-19 data reporting glitch that reportedly cost the Public Health Director her job. Christman, who is returning to government after a stint in the private sector, previously served as a project manager in the office that he now directs. He also previously served in key roles such as acting agency information officer for the California Health and Human Services Agency and CIO [...]
State Chief Data Officer Outlines Vision and Goals for California’s Data Strategy
Speaking to a Zoom audience of more than 80 people at the CalData Open Meeting on Aug. 12, California Chief Data Officer Joy Bonaguro outlined the future of statewide data strategy and the goals to ensure its effectiveness moving forward.
California ISO appoints new president and CEO
Elliot Mainzer has been appointed the new president and CEO of the California Independent System Operator, the agency announced on Thursday.
Closing the Digital Divide Task Force Hearing
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond will hold a hearing today of his task force to close the digital divide for California students who lack access to internet connectivity and devices.
Commentary: Power-to-Gas Offers an Optimal Path for a Carbon-Free California
California is widely regarded for environmental leadership, especially around clean energy policy. The state has set an ambitious goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2045. Decarbonizing its electric power sector requires new approaches and ways of thinking to meet carbon reduction goals, all while minimizing land use, emissions, and cost. One promising approach is power-to-gas (PtG) technology.