2020 Biennial Performance Report

Advancing the Next Generation of Technology in Texas

Goal 3: Agile & Automated IT Strategies


State agencies strive to move toward a collaborative, agile, and automated state government. While response to the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated progress, there are still areas for improvement. As agencies transition to the next generation of innovative solutions, they must be able to rely on the scalable services of cloud and the efficiencies of automation. 

Objectives

  1. Consider agile procurement methodologies.
  2. Leverage shared technology services.
  3. Utilize open source software applications.
  4. Explore and prioritize business process automation.
  5. Initiate testing of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions.
  6. Adopt modern development approaches.
  7. Utilize an application performance management solution.

Outcomes

  1. Increase readiness for advanced technologies such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and robotic process automation.
  2. Reduce risk, create sound procurement processes, and improve project management practices.
  3. Proactively focus on using emerging technologies effectively.
  4. Reduce deployment time and increase functionality at reduced cost.
  5. Better usage of IT-as-a-service, enabling opportunities for innovation and new initiatives.

Assessment

State agencies are in the early stages of embracing Agile approaches and modern IT solutions. They are making strides in advancing cloud adoption, with 97% of state agencies reporting progress since 2018.

Concerns

Advancing the next generation of technology in Texas government requires managing risk. Agencies identify security concerns and migration costs as top barriers to cloud adoption.

Recommendations

State agencies can gain efficiencies and better serve Texans by implementing relevant, streamlined solutions. The State of Texas must develop partnerships and approaches that invest in public sector IT while facing the realities of budget constraints. DIR recommends the following actions to help agencies implement agile and automated strategies.
1. Create programs for redeployment and development of state IT resources.
2. Create programs that invest in public-sector IT with market-driven solutions.

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