Modernization

Modernization Nation

This Nextgov ebook looks at updating the federal government’s technology and operations.

Modernization

Election system threats not as severe as 2016, says DHS official

Election system security issues are still critical, but 2018 election infrastructure threats aren't as "robust" as in 2016, a top official told Congress.

Cybersecurity

Why it's time for a major tech overhaul of the classification system

In a new report, the chief of the Information Security Oversight Office warns that the system by which critical security information is created, classified and shared is overburdened by a reliance on paper, legacy policies and incompatible tech.

Emerging Tech

Google’s High-Altitude Internet Balloons Could Soon Connect Rural Kenya

If implemented, the project could have the potential of extending online connectivity to thousands of people across Kenya.

Acquisition

The rise of the microconsultants

Steve Kelman reports that changes to the micropurchase threshold have opened the door to buying services by government credit card -- and predicts that the impact could be huge.

Cybersecurity

The Chinese Government Likely Knew about Spectre and Meltdown Bugs Before the U.S.

Fixing hardware and software vulnerabilities requires global information sharing—and that includes U.S. cyber adversaries.

Artificial Intelligence

U.S. Needs a National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, Lawmakers and Experts Say

The government is well-positioned to flag specific research areas that would have the biggest impact on national interests.

Cybersecurity

Hacker Caught Selling Maintenance Manuals for Military Drones

A poorly configured router allowed the theft of drone manuals, a list of maintainers, material on the Abrams tank, and more.

Cybersecurity

Senators vexed by slow pace of Spectre/Meltdown disclosures

At a Senate hearing, lawmakers expressed frustration about delays in notifying government about the Spectre and Meltdown vulnerabilities, and they want to see a change industry's approach after discovering flaws.

Digital Government

Cheap Sensors Are Democratizing Air-Quality Data

A new generation of inexpensive, portable air-quality sensors is making it easier for citizen groups and individuals to monitor the air around them.

People

Is leadership churn limiting agency effectiveness?

Turnover in the Trump administration is at historic levels, which takes a toll on the ability of agencies to execute on their missions.

Emerging Tech

Defense Security Service Is Trying to Overhaul the Entire Security Clearance Process

And it turned to an alternative contracting method to find nontraditional background check companies and ideas.

Modernization

DOD CIO hits pause on JEDI cloud acquisition

Dana Deasy set cloud as his office's top priority. But when it comes to the JEDI request for proposal, he's directed staff to "pause" to compile a comprehensive review.

People

The government reorganization plan: There may be a pony in there after all

Attention and criticism have focused on the proposed org-chart changes, Alan Balutis notes, but the real opportunities lie elsewhere.

Emerging Tech

Driving Without a Smartphone

A new law in Georgia discourages drivers from even touching a screen. Whether or not it improves safety, it could help break people’s phone habits.