SNOHOMISH COUNTY—The Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo) announced that the Snohomish County Information Technology Department received second place in the 22nd annual Digital County Study (Population 500,000-999,999 category). The study, conducted in collaboration with NACo, identifies best technology practices in U.S. counties, including efforts to streamline delivery of government services, provide data analytics that enable performance and outcomes-based decisions, strengthen cybersecurity, and apply innovative and emerging technologies to county priorities.
“This year’s survey results highlight how counties are responsibly embracing new technologies, including various forms of artificial intelligence and other digital tools and platforms, to address the top priorities of their constituents and elected officials,” said Teri Takai, CDG’s senior vice president. “The Center for Digital Government is pleased to honor and congratulate this year’s winners for their achievements and their ongoing efforts to leverage technology to improve government.”
Snohomish County, Washington, rose to second place in the Population category this year, driven by best practices and forward-looking plans to use technology to reach residents where they are and simplify complex processes. IT leaders launched an initiative to evaluate and analyze resident digital experiences across environments, from web pages to social media, to create a more holistic approach to services. The IT strategic plan has been updated to reflect this, with an omnichannel approach to resident experience as its goal. A top-to-bottom redesign of the county’s website is underway.
Snohomish created and filled the position of data stewardship and privacy commissioner with oversight of all forms of data. IT leaders reinvigorated the Data Governance Steering Committee and implemented a three-tiered oversight structure that includes representation from all departments, offices and courts. Additionally, the department allocated $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to work with the Office of Recovery and Resilience, the Executive Office and the County Council to improve digital equity by strengthening broadband infrastructure for the public.
“I am incredibly proud of our IT team for repeating this national ranking year after year in this competition,” said Viggo Ford, Chief Information Officer and Director of Information Technology. “This is no easy feat, and we’ve been able to achieve this because of our team’s customer-focused approach and ability to build trusted relationships with our internal customers within the county. I’m also extremely grateful to the Executive Branch and County Council for their continued support of our mission.”
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About Snohomish County Information Technology
The Snohomish County Information Technology Agency supports Snohomish County employees and other government agencies, cities and districts through a wide range of innovative technology services. The agency’s vision is to simplify the lives of residents and employees through technology. The agency’s vision remains focused on delivering value through comprehensive, innovative solutions that meet the needs of its customers and the County. For more information about the Snohomish County Information Technology Agency, visit https://snohomishcountywa.gov/192/Information-Technology.
Source: Snohomish County Government
