California Awarded 1st Place in Leadership and an ‘A’ in Digital States Survey
September 26, 2024 – In a proud moment for the Golden State, California hit a major milestone in its digital journey by achieving a first place for “Leadership” in the 2024 Digital States Survey by the Center for Digital Government. This recognition reflects the State’s innovative IT strategy and its alignment with the Administration’s goals of fostering technological growth, enhancing public services, and ensuring digital equity for all Californians.
In addition to this recognition, California earned an ‘A’ grade in the biennial survey, joining a select group of top states excelling in digital technology. The survey assesses how effectively state governments use technology to improve service delivery, streamline operations, and meet key policy objectives.
California’s success stems from its commitment to leveraging IT across government, led by the California Department of Technology (CDT). Under CDT’s guidance, the State has built a digital strategy that aligns with the Administration’s priorities and enables state agencies to improve services, strengthen cybersecurity, and foster collaboration.
The award is a testament to the hard work of California’s government technology community under the leadership of State Chief Information Officer and CDT Director Liana Bailey-Crimmins, who noted, “This recognition highlights the progress we’ve made in aligning our IT strategy with the Administration’s priorities. By fostering collaboration and innovation, we are ensuring that technology remains a powerful tool for serving all Californians effectively and equitably.”
California’s use of cutting-edge technologies, including Generative AI and broadband expansion through the Middle-Mile Broadband Initiative (MMBI), continues to set the standard for digital government. These efforts are enhancing service delivery while transforming how government operates, ensuring California remains a leader in digital transformation.
Teri Takai, Senior Vice President for the Center for Digital Government, praised the state’s leadership, saying, “California’s first-place recognition reflects its strong leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration across agencies, which are driving its success.”
At the heart of California’s achievements is its focus on future-ready technologies. The State’s Generative AI initiatives are revolutionizing how government interacts with residents, making services more efficient and personalized. Simultaneously, the MMBI is bridging the digital divide by expanding high-speed internet access to underserved communities, ensuring that all Californians have the tools to thrive in a digital world.
“Our efforts are not about technology—they’re about people,” Bailey-Crimmins said. “We are building a more equitable and efficient government that serves every Californian, regardless of geography or income. By expanding broadband and pioneering new technologies, we are future-proofing California’s digital infrastructure for generations to come.”
The State’s IT initiatives are focused on future-proofing California’s technology, including building a statewide digital identity environment and ensuring state agencies are prepared to meet current and future cybersecurity challenges. These collaborative efforts have established California as a global leader in technology and innovation.
Cybersecurity remains a key priority. Under Bailey-Crimmins’ leadership, CDT has strengthened California’s digital efforts, ensuring the state’s growing digital capabilities remain secure. The department’s annual Cybersecurity Education Summit on Oct. 10 will highlight the state’s proactive measures to protect its digital infrastructure.
California’s leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) governance ensures the responsible use of AI while maintaining data privacy and public trust. This approach to innovation keeps the state at the forefront of digital transformation, with initiatives like Generative AI and broadband expansion leading the way.
California and other top-performing states will be honored for their achievements on September 29 at the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) annual meeting in New Orleans. Click here for a complete list of all states and their grades.