In this edition of GovTech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha discuss the importance of broadband access for all Californians, emphasizing the state's efforts to bridge the digital divide. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the necessity of reliable internet access as students had to rely on broadband to attend school remotely, highlighting inequities in access. The state of California has initiated a large-scale effort, involving significant investments from both federal and state levels, to ensure every Californian has access to broadband. This initiative, spearheaded by the state's Department of Technology, Public Utilities Commission, and Department of Transportation, aims to make broadband accessible even in rural or economically disadvantaged areas by leveraging public infrastructure and funding to make it viable for private carriers to extend their services. The program also considers the role of the federal government and the complexities of implementing such infrastructure, including regulatory and equity issues. The initiative is in progress, with planning and grants for the 'middle mile' already under way, and efforts to address the 'last mile' to ensure comprehensive coverage.

00:00 Introduction to Bridging the Digital Divide

00:22 The Urgency of Broadband Access in California

01:32 Understanding the Need for Massive Broadband Investment

02:56 Government's Role in Subsidizing Broadband Infrastructure

06:15 The Complexities of Public and Private Broadband Partnerships

08:11 Equity and Accessibility: The Core of Broadband Initiatives

10:51 The Process and Progress of Broadband Infrastructure Development

14:54 Innovative Procurement and Future Plans

17:05 Exploring New Solutions with RFI 2 Process

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha discuss the enterprise approach to procurement in government departments and agencies, highlighting its impact on technology decisions and operations. They dive into the concept of enterprise infrastructure, using personal technology choices as an analogy, and explore how a unified system can offer interoperability, volume discounts, and simplified staff training. However, they also point out the downsides, such as reduced competition and vulnerability risks. The conversation covers examples like the state of California's email system and the Department of Public Health's efforts to consolidate data systems for better interoperability. The hosts debate the balance between pursuing volume discounts through enterprise contracts and the need for flexibility to support small and diverse businesses, acknowledging the complexities of government procurement and suggesting a potential middle ground.

00:00 Introduction to GovTech Today

00:19 Exploring the Enterprise Approach in Government Procurement

02:41 Pros and Cons of an Enterprise Approach

09:19 Case Study: Department of Public Health's Enterprise Strategy

13:33 Challenges and Opportunities in Enterprise-Wide Contracts

17:08 Security and Efficiency in Government Technology Contracts

21:18 Concluding Thoughts on the Enterprise Approach

This episode of Gov Tech Today features hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha in conversation with Justin Brown, former Secretary of Human Services for Oklahoma, about the use and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in government services, particularly in health and human services. Brown discusses his experiences and insights gained from serving during the pandemic, his role in spearheading conversations about AI across states, and the foundation of the Center for Public Sector AI. The discussion delves into the challenges and opportunities AI presents in enhancing client and workforce experiences, reducing regulatory burdens, and improving systemic efficiency within government services. The episode highlights the importance of ethical considerations, education, and creating operational guardrails for AI deployment, alongside exploring how AI can address critical issues like the benefits cliff, and improve decision-making, workforce processes, and cultural accessibility. A future outlook for the Center for Public Sector AI and its role in fostering collaboration across sectors to leverage AI for societal benefits is also discussed.

00:00 Welcome to GovTech Today: Bridging Com and Gov

00:41 Introducing Justin Brown: Insights from a Public Service Leader

02:12 The Genesis of AI Focus in Public Service

03:16 Forming the Center for Public Sector AI: A Collaborative Effort

05:19 Educating Leaders and Setting Ethical Guardrails for AI

09:38 Exploring AI's Potential in Health and Human Services

10:36 California's Role and Comparisons in AI Adoption

12:46 Addressing Data Quality and Governance in AI Applications

14:54 Unpacking AI Use Cases and the Future of Public Sector AI

30:53 The Center for Public Sector AI: A Vision for the Future

In this episode of Govtech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha explore the transformative landscape of coding and development, especially within the state government sector, with insights from an experienced GitLab developer. The conversation covers the developer's journey from QA to coding for product and sales consulting, emphasizing the rapid evolution of coding languages and methodologies over the decades, including the shift towards Agile development. The focal point of the discussion is the impact and integration of AI in coding, highlighting its role in enhancing efficiency, automating processes, and the potential for AI to revolutionize code refactoring, making it faster and more accessible. Additionally, the episode delves into how GitLab's culture, openness, and user-driven expansion have positioned it as a vital tool for developers. The significance of AI in government, the challenges of adapting old code with modern technologies, and the ways GitLab supports transparent, efficient coding practices in the public sector are also examined. This conversation sheds light on the ongoing changes in the coding world, the pivotal role of AI, and the importance of platforms like GitLab in bridging the gap between traditional and modern coding environments.

00:00 Introduction to Govtech Today

00:25 Bridging the Gap: From Coding Novice to Expert Insights

01:09 The Evolutionary Journey of a Developer

02:25 Navigating the Shifts in Technology and Career Paths

03:50 AI: Hype or Game Changer?

06:09 AI in State Government: Opportunities and Challenges

06:48 Embracing DevSecOps and Agile in Government

08:03 The Cult of GitLab: Security, Development, and AI

11:07 AI's Role in Refactoring and Code Efficiency

14:06 Bridging the Skills Gap with AI and GitLab

21:31 AI Transparency and Ethics in Government

24:42 Generative AI: Definitions, Applications, and Transparency

28:59 Concluding Thoughts on AI and Coding

In this episode of GovTech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jen Saha discuss the ongoing efforts in California to legislate and regulate Generative AI (Gen AI). They delve into key legislative proposals from Senator Wiener and Assemblywoman Bauer Kahn, focusing on their intent to provide clear guidelines and protections concerning the use of AI. Amidst discussions on the complexities and challenges of regulating Gen AI, the episode highlights concerns about potential federal preemption, the necessity for state action, and the implications of EU's AI regulations. The hosts also tackle the new Gen AI guidelines issued by California's Department of Technology, aimed at informing state departments on procuring and utilizing Gen AI technologies responsibly. The conversation covers the breadth of public, legislative, and regulatory responses to Gen AI's rapid development and its societal, ethical, and employment implications within the state's governance framework.

00:00 Welcome to GovTech Today: Bridging the Gap Between Commerce and Government

00:22 Diving Into Legislation: The Battle Over Gen AI Bills

01:15 The Legislative Debate: Unworkable Bills and Federal Preemption

04:00 Finding Middle Ground: Protecting the Public and Navigating AI Legislation

04:51 The Governor's Influence and Addressing Bias and Labor in AI

09:28 Navigating the Complexities of AI Regulation and Procurement

15:16 The Paradox of Innovation in Government: Balancing Risk and Opportunity

22:13 The Future of Gen AI in Government: Challenges and Opportunities

27:59 Conclusion: The Urgent Need for Clarity and Efficiency in AI Governance

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha explore the ongoing reforms in government technology procurement, focusing on the complexities and frustrations within the terms and conditions of procurement contracts. They discuss a specific comment period and a significant hearing where industry professionals and government representatives attempt to address these issues, highlighting the need for changes that benefit both parties. Key areas of concern include liability limits, cybersecurity, data handling, and intellectual property rights. The episode reveals differing opinions on liability, the challenges of data protection in a global workforce, and how current terms may stifle innovation and limit small business participation in government contracts. By examining other states' approaches and advocating for clearer, more adaptable terms, the episode underscores the importance of continued dialogue and reform to foster better government-vendor relations and encourage technological advancement in government services.

00:00 Welcome to GovTech Today: Bridging the Gap Between .Com and .Gov

00:28 The Ongoing Effort for Procurement Reform

02:01 Navigating Terms and Conditions: A Vendor's Perspective

03:10 Streamlining Documents for Clarity and Efficiency

04:21 Addressing Liability Concerns in Government Contracts

09:05 The Impact of Unlimited Liability on Small Businesses

12:07 Exploring Intellectual Property and Data Rights Issues

14:47 Balancing Security, Accessibility, and Cost in Data Management

18:26 The Challenges of Security Definitions and Notifications

26:21 The Future of Government Procurement: A Call for Engagement

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha delve into the world of data management within the government sector, sparked by the growing interest in AI technologies like ChatGPT. They invite Athol Smith, a seasoned data expert with over 30 years of experience, to share his insights on the evolution of data storage, the challenges and opportunities of storing data in the cloud, and the importance of data maturity and governance in leveraging data effectively for government operations. Smith discusses his early career in data management, the transition from physical storage to cloud solutions, and the critical role of comprehensive data governance in maximizing data utility while minimizing costs. The conversation also touches on the potential future of data management in government, emphasizing the need for chief data and AI officers in departments to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape.

00:00 Welcome to GovTech Today: Bridging Com and Gov

00:17 Special Episode: Deep Dive into Data's Moment with Athol Smith

01:34 Athol Smith: 30+ Years in Data and Its Evolution

02:44 The Evolution of Data Storage: From Tapes to Cloud

05:46 State Government's Data Storage Today: Challenges and Strategies

09:37 AI's Impact on Data Strategy and Storage Costs

12:00 Leveraging Data in the Private Sector: A Case Study

26:15 The Importance of Data Maturity and Governance

32:34 Closing Thoughts and Future of Data and AI in Government

In this edition of Gov Tech Today, hosts Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha explore the challenges businesses face in navigating the complex web of privacy regulations across different jurisdictions including federal, international, and state levels, particularly highlighting the variances between states like California and others. They discuss the implications of divergent regulations for businesses, the role of strategic counsel in finding the most favorable regulations, and how different sectors and states drive legislation. The conversation also covers the upcoming regulatory challenges with AI, the impact of California's environmental policies at the federal level, and the importance of engagement and expertise from the private sector in shaping effective and balanced regulations.

00:00 Introduction to the Complex World of Regulations

00:44 The Challenges of Privacy Regulations

01:46 The Impact of Divergent Regulations on Businesses

02:44 The Role of Business Interests in Shaping Regulations

03:52 The Influence of State-Specific Regulations

04:34 The Confusion Surrounding AI Regulations

06:22 The Power of Regulatory Capture

08:11 The Influence of California's Regulations on Federal Policies

10:23 The Future of AI Regulations

12:32 The Role of Politics in Shaping Regulations

16:10 The Importance of Engaging with the Regulatory Process

20:04 Conclusion: The Call to Action for Businesses

In this episode of Gov Tech Today, the hosts, Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha, discuss procurement reform in state government, specifically in California. They express concerns for the need to improve the traditional method of procurement, explaining that it may be more fitting to refer to it as 'procurement modernization' or 'procurement streamlining'. The conversation involves examining past and present procurement strategies, drawbacks of exhaustive requirements in RFPs, and ways to make the process more efficient. They highlight that the objective is not to make dramatic changes, but to introduce small, manageable tweaks that can potentially make the system more efficient and lead to better service delivery. The potential benefits of being transparent about budget allocations during the bidding process is discussed, as well as the need for flexibility in human capital projections for multi-year projects. The pair also share examples of best practices from other regions such as Utah and suggest ways California could learn from these methods. The conversation concludes with an optimistic note about the future of procurement processes, provided there is a balance between risk tolerance and innovation.

00:00 Introduction to Gov Tech Today

00:15 Understanding Procurement Reform

00:34 The Challenges of Current Procurement Processes

02:28 The Issue with Individual References

05:28 The Problem with Project Planning

06:10 The Need for Procurement Reform

07:45 The Role of Tech and Programmatic Teams in Procurement

09:58 The Benefits of Disclosing Budgets in RFPs

13:51 Learning from Other States' Procurement Processes

15:49 Turning Complaints into Actionable Steps

17:10 Conclusion: The Future of Procurement

This episode of 'Govtech Today' delves into the complexities and intricacies of selling to the government and B2G operations, hosted by Russell Lowery and Jennifer Saha. The hosts differentiate between business-to-business (B2B), business-to-consumer, and business-to-government (B2G) sales, stating that selling to the government (B2G) is uniquely challenging due to its risk averseness and its lack of a profit incentive. Government's mission is to serve citizens and its spendings come from taxpayers' money, making it essential for them to evade risky, innovative ideas that could result in financial losses. Several constraints, including transparency protocols, rules, regulations, and policy priorities, all add layers of complexity and lengthen the procurement cycle. The conversation further explores the impact of the government's changing policy priorities, the obstacles in instigating procurement reforms, and how long-term planning could help in mitigating some of these issues. Lastly, the episode reveals a need for flexibility in dealing with laws and a goal for making the procurement process a little better.

00:00 Introduction to Selling to the Government

00:27 Understanding the Differences in Government Sales

02:04 Impact of Government's Non-Profit Incentive on Sales

03:27 The Role of Transparency in Government Procurement

05:05 Challenges of Government Rules and Regulations

06:45 Government's Risk Aversion and its Impact on Innovation

08:11 Policy Priorities and their Impact on Procurement Costs

11:12 The Struggle to Navigate Procurement Rules and Regulations

13:38 The Challenge of Procurement Reform

16:01 Conclusion: Making the Procurement Process Better