One of the shining stars in the e-government arena throughout the pessimistic first half of the year was Texas. The state enthusiastically showcased TexasOnline and touted the business model they hope will defy the demons of budgetary doom. Rather than pull back on planned electronic services, Texas is methodically launching new applications and passing the benefits of its enterprise infrastructure on to local jurisdictions. Among the features that its local partners can leverage are security systems that address some of the pressing demands of today's environment. Texas was one of the first to perform a statewide security assessment -- months before 9/11 -- and to take steps to remedy its vulnerabilities.
Our compelling interview with California's security czar George Vinson reveals just how this new nationwide effort permeates all levels and functions of government. His high-profile role with the federal Office of Homeland Security gives credence to a remarkable post-Sept. 11 transformation; suddenly state and local governments are seated at the table with federal officials. Vinson's view is a "four-man department in Kerman, Calif., is just as significant as a 10,000-man department in Los Angeles." And it is this attitude, increasingly shared throughout the nation, that underscores the fundamental value of e-government in today's global environment.
It is not a single security strategy or a set of technologies that will build a better and safer government network. The genesis of 21st century digital government is intelligent planning, collaboration and cooperation among decision-makers at the federal, state and local levels.
Mark Foreman, associate director of e-government in the Office of Management and Budget, is traveling the country to spread the message of interconnectivity, inter-jurisdictional cooperation and systems integration. He carries an open-door invitation to state and local governments that solicits the kind of collaboration unknown before Sept. 11.
With this kind of inclusive mandate, e-government becomes an essential backbone for national security. There is a critical need for online services, new channels of communication and access to government information. Government portals are, as demonstrated by New York City's Web site in September, effective emergency management tools. The same systems that power everyday electronic government, that provide access to services, enhance accountability and create transparency, also support the nation's homeland security mission.
Given this reality, e-government, rather than diminishing in importance, becomes essential. The technology genie long ago escaped from the magic lamp of invention and she won't be put back in confinement. Regardless of funding, policy focus or public perception, e-government has become an established tool for the delivery of 21st century governance.
