Digital Government

Defense Innovation Board Director Moves to Google

It’s another sign of the healing relationship between the Defense Department and big tech.

Ideas

3 Ways Technology Meets Empathy to Solve Overwhelmed Agency Phone Lines

Conversational technology can be an excellent way to deflect repetitive questions to AI that can act like a live FAQ around constantly changing information.

Cybersecurity

Citing Cyber Threats, Trump Orders Ban on Buying Energy Sector Equipment from Foreign Adversaries

Some stakeholders say Commerce Department rules to implement a similar order about telecommunications equipment from last May are “impossible” to comply with.   

Cybersecurity

Why We Adopt and Then Ditch Online Security Tips

“It can be challenging to follow through with a particular piece of advice, and sometimes experts conflict with each other in providing advice,” a researcher said.

Modernization

Labor Wants Feedback on Checklist for Modernizing State Unemployment Systems

The federal agency seeks input on the mandatory guidance it released to help states prevent service disruptions as they update their technology. 

Digital Government

House Lawmakers Press HHS Secretary for Details on Contact Tracing Programs

States are turning to smartphone apps and other digital tools that could compromise privacy, the lawmakers wrote. 

Emerging Tech

How the Justice Department is Permitted to Use Counter-Drone Technology

The guidance enables the agency and its subcomponents to intercept, damage or destroy threatening drones in some cases. 

Digital Government

Army Researchers Want Help Building Predictive COVID-19 Models For Use Across DOD

The research partner will be expected to immediately begin work on two modeling analyses and be agile enough to shift as priorities change.

Modernization

Accenture Federal Wins $96M Task Order to Modernize and Automate VA Services

Through human-centered design, federal employees and other users will weigh in on what works, along the way.

Cybersecurity

Former National Security Council Officials Flag Backlash From Commerce Blacklisting Huawei

U.S. companies’ participation in crucial standards setting bodies is falling off even more precipitously.

Policy

Lawmakers Want the Next COVID-19 Relief Package to Support Suicide Prevention

Dozens of officials want the government to establish “9-8-8” as the new “9-1-1” for mental health crises.

Emerging Tech

Above-Average Hurricane Season Could Further Challenge Government's Pandemic Response

Technology may be key in ensuring the government responds to disasters on multiple fronts, a retired U.S. Army General said.

Emerging Tech

Privacy Options Don't Boost Trust in Voice Assistants

For some users, adjusting privacy and content settings could have an unfavorable effect, the new research shows.

Modernization

GSA Develops Human-Centered Design Buying Guide for Agencies

The buying guide assistance to federal agencies looking to improve their customer experience operations.

Ideas

As the Coronavirus Interrupts Global Supply Chains, People Have an Alternative: Make It at Home

The cost of 3D printers has dropped low enough to be accessible to most Americans.

Emerging Tech

Republican Lawmakers Propose Bill to Support Government COVID-19 Research Effort

The COVID Research Act includes several authorizations, including $50 million to the Energy Department.