Information Day Vast change is apparent in our everyday lives but transformation is more so evident in technology. So how do governments stay in sync and even a step ahead in this technological race, which can progress into a course of development and advancement but also one of disruption and vulnerability? During Information Day as well as throughout the entire conference we examined how government CIOs and eGovernment leaders can translate and embrace latest technologies within their digital strategy, infrastructure and services. Mr. Cheow Hoe Chan, Government CIO with the Government Technology Agency of Singapore shared on being Agile, Bold and Collaborative in facing the world of digital disruption and democratization of technology during his keynote speech themed “The A.B.C of the Ds.” The Government Update, dedicated to the organization, implementation and practice sharing of Digital Transformation, allowed us to take a closer look at how a number of governments have adapted or are coping with in some instances with new technologies with presentations by Toshiyuki Zamma of Japan, Tim Occleshaw (GTCO, New Zealand), Victor Lagunes (CIO, Mexico), Frank Leyman (Digital Transformation Office, Belgium), Alex Benay and Jennifer Dawson (CIO and Dep. CIO respectively, Canada). Next was the Technology Update session which addressed the new Technologies that have emerged while noting others that are transforming at an exponential pace. Our speakers Marj Akerley (CIO, Canada), Soichiro Takagi (Research Division GM, GLOCOM), Yih-Jeou Wang (Head of International co-operation, Agency for Digitization- Ministry of Finance, Denmark) and Anna-Maija Karjaleinen (Director General, Ministry of Finance, Finland) shared their insights on how they have adopted these new technologies including Blockchain, Robots and Artificial Intelligence as well as means to secure data. A special presentation was given by Andrea Di Maio (Managing VP, Gartner Research) themed “Digital Government: A Journey not a Destination.” He explained the use of data to address intractable problems and analysed the different digital maturity levels involved. Finally, we rounded up the day with the Members Update where our member countries presented their country’s report. Peter Bruce, treasured past ICA Board member and currently a Senior Associate at the Institute on Governance of Canada, introduced each country and its representative report. This year’s session showcased some new sharing from Azerbaijan, New Zealand and Romania. We look forward to see them join us at upcoming conferences as well!
