Procurement reform can help states transform in ‘smaller chunks,’ says California CIO

Digital transformation can mean many things, but the chief information officer of California says it’s about more than providing technology.

“[State CIOs] all have the same common goal, but realize transforming government digitally is not an easy task,” California state CIO Amy Tong says in a video interview. “This is much more than simply providing technology to our end users.”

In California, digital transformation means a comprehensive strategy that involves not only technology refreshes, but also encompasses workforce development and business goals.

“This is about training, level-setting expectations and helping our business to change our business practices and reimagine the possibility of digital transformation to help them think differently,” Tong says.

She says governments need to couple their technological changes with procurement and funding mechanisms to help “fund digital transformations in a smaller chunk.” All of those elements must come together in order for transformation to be successful, Tong says.

“That’s what we’ve been doing the last two years, and look forward to doing more to set up that groundwork so that this digital transformation can move at a very healthy pace.”

Tong on her top priorities:

Tong on her 2018 accomplishments:

Tong on diversity in the workforce:

Tong on artificial intelligence:

These videos were produced by StateScoop at the National Association of State Chief Information Officers’ annual conference in San Diego, California, in October 2018.