This issue brief provides a general overview of not only what consolidation and shared services mean to the state CIO, but will identify triggers that make state's pursue one or the other and outline the benefits and drawbacks to doing either or both. Also, this issue brief will identify and explore the potential roadblocks such as cultural issues and exceptions based on specific agency restrictions. References to other reports, state plans and resources that relate to consolidation and shared services are provided as well. The brief is available at:
"There is a continuum of options that can be considered when it comes to IT consolidation and shared services and our hope as a committee is this helps CIOs gain greater insight into the challenges and opportunities along the path to greater efficiency." said John Gillispie, Chief Operating Officer for Iowa's Information Technology Enterprise, and Co-chair of NASCIO's Enterprise Infrastructure & Services Committee. "NASCIO is pleased to offer this brief as a valuable resource to assist state CIOs as they plan for the future of their state's IT enterprise."
Denise Moore, Chief Information Officer for the state of Kansas, and Co-chair of NASCIO's Enterprise Infrastructure & Services Committee added, "Whether considering the consolidation or sharing of IT services, we are all interested in lowering costs while continuing to improve services to our customers in state government. It is important to recognize that there is no universal approach; a State's IT governance structure and political culture will affect their decisions. In Kansas we are employing both models as suitable for our needs. This brief will help CIOs learn more about this issue and determine the best approach for their state."
