With an ever-increasing demand on their digital infrastructures, 65% of federal agencies report embracing emerging technologies to accelerate transformation efforts, according to a new study released by General Dynamics Information Technology.
Seeds of Change, GDIT’s Digital Consulting Practice, surveyed 425 officials across defense, civilian and intelligence agencies to examine emerging technology adoption in federal government. They found that emerging technology adoption is rising as agencies seek enhanced cybersecurity, faster decision-making and increased productivity.
Still, agencies face obstacles like tight budgets, integrating with legacy systems and upskilling workforces. Two-thirds of respondents said their agencies are “moderately to extremely ready to embrace emerging technologies,” and one-third cited increased security and enhanced productivity as the biggest motivations to adopt emerging technologies.
Technologies impacting agency cybersecurity postures include artificial intelligence, followed by emerging cyber capabilities and data and predictive analytics.
While they are eager to adapt, more than one-third indicate cost and budget concerns and compatibility with existing software as primary challenges.
Researchers also found some key differences in how agencies view these technologies.
For example, 43% of respondents in defense organizations identify increased cybersecurity as a top motivation. They are leading the market in the application of robotic process automation and 5G adoption.
On the civilian side, one in three agencies report prioritizing the adoption of new technologies for real-time data and improved decision-making. And the intelligence and homeland security agencies lead in the adoption of cloud and edge computing, with over half indicating they use these technologies.
“Emerging technologies are positively impacting every part of our government, from national security to health to education to public safety,” said Ben Gianni, GDIT senior vice president and chief technology officer. “While this journey will also present new challenges, agencies that strategically adopt emerging technologies will be better positioned to improve decision-making, maximize operational efficiencies, combat escalating cybersecurity threats, and advance mission effectiveness.”
The study was developed by GDIT’s Digital Consulting Practice and conducted in collaboration with an independent market research firm.