DISA’s Cloud Evolution | Private AI | OPM’s Digital Transition

This episode is presented by Appian

Shaping the Cloud Frontier: Sharon Woods on Enhancing Defense IT Infrastructure

Sharon Woods,  Director, HACC at DISA discusses the evolving cloud landscape within the Defense Department and DISA’s role in shaping it. She highlights the JWCC program’s rapid growth and the use of automated tools for efficient acquisition and cloud account provisioning. Woods emphasizes the importance of providing a range of cloud solutions, including commercial and private cloud capabilities, to meet diverse mission needs. Her focus is on optimizing cloud services for warfighters, both domestically and internationally, and integrating these services effectively into the broader defense infrastructure.

Key Takeaways:

1. Implementation of Cloud Services: The JWCC program has significantly accelerated, with over 35 task orders and a streamlined process for rapid implementation.
2. Automated Tools Enhancing Efficiency: The use of automated tools for building acquisition packages and provisioning cloud accounts has greatly improved operational efficiency.
3. Diverse Cloud Solutions for Varied Needs: Emphasis on a mix of commercial and private cloud solutions, including edge computing capabilities, to meet the diverse and specific requirements of the Defense Department’s mission.

Securing the Future: Jason Adolf on the Rise of Private AI in Government Sector

Jason Adolf, Industry Vice President, Public Sector at Appian discusses the concept of ‘Private AI’ in the government sector, emphasizing the need for secure and segregated data handling in AI applications. He highlights the common confusion in discerning appropriate use of public versus private AI tools and stresses the importance of platforms that ensure safe data usage. Adolf also touches on the broader queries about AI in government, focusing on AI’s role in case management and automation, and how these technologies are becoming integral in federal sectors, including defense, law enforcement, and public health.

Key Takeaways:

1. Need for Private AI in Government: Emphasis on creating an environment where government data is trained and kept separate from public and other customer data, ensuring confidentiality and security.
2. Confusion Over AI Application: There’s a general uncertainty in government sectors regarding the appropriate use of AI, highlighting the need for platforms that provide a safe and controlled user experience.
3. Integration of AI with Automation: Discussion on how AI is being used in conjunction with other technologies like robotic process automation (RPA) to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in various government applications, particularly in case management and acquisition.

Modernizing for the Future: Guy Cavallo on Transforming OPM’s Digital Landscape

Guy Cavallo, OPM CIO discusses several major modernization initiatives at OPM, focusing on transforming core functions of the agency. He emphasizes the transition from paper-based, manual processes to digital systems, especially in the retirement systems modernization program. Cavallo highlights the importance of an agile approach, taking incremental steps rather than attempting a ‘big bang’ overhaul. Additionally, he speaks about the potential impact of AI on government operations and the need for a comprehensive approach to cloud migration.

Key Takeaways:

1. Retirement Systems Modernization: Focused on digitizing the retirement process for federal employees, improving transparency and efficiency.
2. Adoption of an Agile Approach: Emphasis on modular, step-by-step development to ensure success in large-scale IT projects.
3. AI and Cloud Migration Strategy: Exploring the vast potential of AI in government operations and employing a strategic approach to cloud migration, prioritizing applications based on impact and ease of transition.