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Agency Shares IT Goals in Biennial Performance Report

Also listed in the report is the state’s latest use of information resource technologies.

The interior of a data center in the background with an arm reaching in from the side in the foreground, palm up, with digital icons including a computer monitor, wheels, a calendar, a key and a piggy bank hovering above it.
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As the official technology agency for the state, the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) has shared four strategic technology goals in its 2022 Biennial Performance Report.

These strategic goals come from the state’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan for Information Resources Management. Also shared in the 34-page document are agency success stories and technology accomplishments that align with these efforts.

With that said, the agency’s goals include the following:

  • Securing IT service delivery
  • Advanced data management
  • Strategic digital transformation  
  • Taking a proactive approach to emerging technologies

Regarding IT service delivery, the report recommends implementing a four-pronged approach, including creating scalable, integrated cybersecurity tactics; reinforcing risk-based security practices; focusing on cybersecurity education and training; and developing regional strategies for cybersecurity engagement and response.

For DIR, real-world applications of this include requiring local governments and school districts to report incidents within a minimum reporting timeframe and requiring government entities to utilize the standardized “.gov” domain when establishing a new domain name to reduce website spoofing.

As for advanced data management, the report recommends enhancing data security and privacy, fostering a data-sharing culture, adopting flexible analytics and strengthening data governance.

To help meet this goal, DIR recommends establishing a statewide chief privacy officer to serve as a central point of contact on data privacy.

In terms of strategic digital transformation, the report emphasizes the importance of developing a strategic road map, implementing human-centered applications, promoting mobile-first digital experiences and gauging the agency’s level of digital maturity.

DIR specifically points to enabling private-sector peer-to-peer payments for government services and enabling broader access to digital government services, streamlined processes and digitization through digital signatures as recommendations.

Lastly, to foster a more proactive approach to emerging technologies, the report underscores legacy modernization; developing a resilient workforce; creating flexible and adaptable strategies for procuring and implementing technologies; and identifying opportunities to deploy emerging technologies.

One specific example DIR shares regarding this goal is providing guidance for distributed ledger and blockchain technology best practices.

Moving forward, DIR will implement these goals and objectives over the next four years.
Katya Maruri is an Orlando-based e.Republic staff writer. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in global strategic communications from Florida International University.