Federal agencies face an unprecedented challenge – deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI) in ways that tangibly enhance mission delivery instead of simply following technology trends. While people are talking about the features and size of the latest AI large language models (LLM), they are asking the wrong questions.
Strategy is a set of decisions about what an organization will – and will not – do to achieve its goals. The larger the organization, the more challenging it is to implement a strategy. A clear, well-understood strategy helps focus resources and effort on an organization’s most important priorities. Culture, however, is the key to making strategy happen, especially in large, complex organizations like the Federal Government.
Effective communication is essential for Government program leaders, especially when conveying complex or mission-critical information to stakeholders. While traditional methods like written or spoken updates can fall short, infographics offer a powerful alternative by making data more accessible, memorable, and engaging. By mastering the key principles of infographics in storytelling, leaders can transform stakeholder communication. Using well-crafted infographics not only enhances clarity but also drives stronger project outcomes.
In today’s global landscape – shaped by increased migration, globalization, and evolving security concerns – agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) must balance national security with the efficient processing of individuals entering the country lawfully. To manage risk and maintain security, CBP can continue to prioritize the needs of travelers who must enter the country quickly by taking a human-centered approach.
Every month, artificial intelligence (AI) increases in both popularity and capability. AI refers to a computer’s ability to perform automated tasks in a manner that mimics human intelligence. In today’s fast-paced environment, AI provides Federal agencies with a solution to reduce time spent on repetitive tasks (e.g., data entry and analysis) to prioritize complex, mission-critical work.
The adoption of drone technology and online drug markets by drug traffickers is creating a borderless, hard-to-detect threat that bypasses traditional border control methods. As new traffickers coordinate operations through decentralized online markets and smuggle drugs over the border via unmanned drones, physical infrastructure becomes increasing obsolete.
Shifting from neurobiological research on substance use to Federal consulting was not as much of a leap as it may seem. Instead, it was the next step in my career rooted in the same core values. At the heart of both roles are three essential principles that continue to shape my work: innovation, collaboration, and evidence-based problem solving.
With the advent of generative AI and the explosion of data privacy, bias, and other concerns, the need for effective AI regulation is becoming increasingly important.
The Federal Government and private sector already have an interest in working together to create strong regulations. The private sector’s knowledge and flexibility provides innovative solutions to the Federal Government, while rigid Federal regulations reduce the likelihood that tech companies will invest in products that could be regulated out of existence.
In today’s fast-paced world, where information overload is the norm, effective data storytelling is essential for Government agencies to interpret complex datasets and clearly communicate insights to policy makers and stakeholders. Agencies like Homeland Security are tasked with enhancing their decision-making and information capabilities to fulfill their missions, report to Congress, and engage with citizens. It is imperative for Federal agencies to use available tools and capabilities to conceptualize and effectively communicate data-driven insights.
Building trust with stakeholders takes a thoughtful, structured approach that prioritizes understanding their needs, expectations, and perspectives. A consistent, repeatable process, founded on proven principles of human-centered design, allows for a tailored approach to better engage and connect with stakeholders and deliver effective solutions through the most effective channels.
After four years as a paralegal for the Department of Justice (DOJ) Antitrust Division, I made a pivotal decision to transition into a consulting career focused on Federal clients. This shift wasn’t just a career change, but a strategic move that allowed me to apply my unique skill set and extensive understanding of Federal processes to offer helpful solutions as a consultant.
Building trust in the Government requires transparency and accountability. In recent years, sociopolitical challenges, technological advancements, and local issues have eroded some public confidence in Government institutions. To address this, Federal agencies can intentionally invest in fostering transparency and demonstrating their commitment to accountability by taking thoughtful and clear actions tied to mission goals.
Community Involvement is not just something we talk about doing, we are actively creating opportunities for our team to build connections, our company culture, and involvement in our local community.
