Texas Brings Its A Game as a Digital State

In the two years since the last Digital States Survey from the Center for Digital Government*, leading states have put the resident experience at the center of their work while also embracing cutting-edge technologies.

Texas earned an A grade this year with miles of opportunities for technologists to learn, network and influence the digital landscape, thanks to efforts by the state’s information agency, public-sector organizations and lawmakers. Top talking points are cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

Cybersecurity is concern No. 1, and the Department of Information Resources (DIR) provides multiple ways for state agencies, institutes of higher education and other entities to learn about, secure and adopt technologies to ensure a holistic cyber stance. This is done in part through statewide purchasing vehicles, training opportunities, advisory groups and networking. Regional Security Operations Centers continue to go online to connect regions with 24/7 resources, and the Texas Education Agency works with DIR to advise, assist and equip K-12 schools.

Artificial intelligence is the state’s next concern. To better understand the implications and impacts of AI, the Legislature created the Texas AI Advisory Council and also constituted a special committee. DIR was ahead of the pack with its AI Center of Excellence in 2020 and the Texas Innovation and Education Center in 2023.

Interspersed in the conversation is data governance and how best practices are needed to create ethical, reliable AI solutions — whether they be used to streamline agency work or to quicken constituent interactions.

Residents have options when it comes to digital services including licensing, whether they be fishing licenses or driver’s licenses. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has issued 200,000 digital hunting licenses since 2022 and allows digital tagging via the My Texas Hunt & Fish app. Texas.gov, the state’s homepage, garners the most visits, followed by the Texas by Texas app and the Department of Motor Vehicles’ registration renewals webpages.

A record nine states received A grades in 2024, pushing the envelope of what is possible in the public sector while continuing to provide the essential services that constituents need and expect.

The Digital States Survey is designed to highlight best and emerging technology practices that can serve as models to be shared across state borders. The survey recognizes these achievements and provides a common reference for all 50 states in the ongoing work of finding better ways to conduct the public’s business.

*The Digital States Survey is conducted by the Center for Digital Government, part of e.Republic, the parent company of Government Technology and Industry Insider — Texas.