USA embraces digital procurement
The US government, in response to cries for updated citizen-government interactive platforms, has launched the US Digital Service (USDS). The new platform will counsel government agencies on how to embrace digital service delivery, working towards a better outcome for citizens while adhering to federal policy.
One of the largest obstacles US government agencies face is working in a digital age, but with archaic, pre-digital guidelines and resources in regards to citizen interaction and public procurement. USDS advocates for modern technology principles such as user-centered design, and has produced a Digital Services Playbook to guide agencies’ digital development. The White House, meanwhile, has published the TechFAR Handbook, highlighting flexibilities in existing Federal Acquisition Regulation regarding technology. Both publications presently have an open call for content review by citizens. The government has also produced the Digital Government Strategy document, with goals including Streamlining Service Delivery and Improving Customer Service and Delivering an Efficient, Effective, and Accountable Government.
Code for America has similarly been working on encouraging, mapping, and spreading procurement innovation. The organisations’ work focuses on change at a grass-roots level, partnering with cities to explore new solutions in government procurement. Working in a bottom-up methodology, organisations such as these compliment the work implemented by the government, resulting in a more thorough and comprehensive network of digital initiatives covering multiple tiers of government, citizen agendas, and procurement.
For more information, visit the Department of State Digital Government Strategy website.