Normally, we review the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) High Risk list to evaluate digital transformation efforts. Now, it seems safe to say that that list has taken a back seat to more immediate concerns as governmental organizations – federal, state and local – all face unprecedented demands on resources and services.
The partnership between government and technology
Fortunately, government agencies and technology innovations have long had a successful partnership. As organizations lean into options like greater mobility, automation, IoT data and AI insights, they’re delivering programs, also known as smart city options, that offer faster, more personalized services with lower agency costs. They also successfully meet rising citizen expectations and transform how government offices handle their operations.
Under any circumstances, government agencies always need to find ways to do more with less, and do it better. By digitizing facilities and applying insights from IoT data and AI, these public entities can realize a 20% savings on total building operations costs.
Using IoT data and AI for space and occupant wellbeing
Now, technology has an increased role to play in keeping people safer. While many of us are able to work from home, there are countless agencies, buildings and people deemed as “essential.” That means that the lights have to stay on as work continues. That also means it’s critical to understand how every space is being used, who is using it and when. Some agencies are trying to uncover even more utilization for existing space, and for others, it’s about quickly consolidating or adding space as needed. And for everyone, prioritizing enhanced occupant wellbeing is a must.
In the midst of disruption, AI-based real estate and facilities management solutions can play a crucial role. By truly understanding and monitoring occupancy, agencies know how to allocate space based on social distancing guidelines, which facilities need enhanced cleaning protocols and how to manage food service needs. There are also mobility solutions for self-service, contact-less requests, and AI-based assistance to further reduce face-to-face interactions. These solutions can also flag items for preventative maintenance to help you avoid unplanned downtime, and deliver a single source of truth for space and occupancy, which will be necessary as agencies ramp back up for a new “normal.”
Learn more from the analysts
If you’re interested in learning more, read the report from independent research firm, Verdantix. Their recommendation: in a quickly changing technology landscape, real estate execs – and government agencies – should reassess their technologies every year. You can also explore the value of an integrated workplace management system (IWMS) and space management solutions.
I also invite you to read an excellent post from my IBM colleague, Tim Paydos, called The essential role of government during COVID-19. As he notes, “Right now, more than ever, stable and effective government is at the core of managing through this crisis.”
Ensure efficient and reliable government operations and speak with one of our industry experts
Insights from connected assets and untapped data sources are critical to understanding the preventive, predictive, and prescriptive actions needed to maintain facilities, optimize performance, and avoid downtime. Fortunately, IBM possesses the essential combination of software, services, and industry expertise to build intelligent workflows that respond to rapidly changing conditions. Wherever you are in your digital journey, we will partner with you to deliver the AI-powered insights and consultative services required for more resilient government operations. We invite you to speak with one of our industry experts.
About the author: Marlon Attiken is a Partner within IBM Services where he leads the Internet of Things (IoT) offering for government. He focuses on client transformation through digital technology and platforms. As the leader of IBM’s IoT initiatives for government, he works with federal, state and local, and higher education institutions to disrupt existing business models through exponential technologies such as IoT, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud. Marlon has held a variety of roles at IBM in the strategy and digital domains where he advised clients on financial and operational transformation, emerging technology strategy, and systems implementation. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and holds a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) with concentrations in Financial Instruments and Markets from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Connect with Marlon on LinkedIn.
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