State News Release

Washington State Department of Information Services

Date: September 19, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joanne Todd, Communications Director, 360.902.3553, joannet@dis.wa.gov


Washington State named among top technology leaders
State jumps into Top Ten for technology service, innovation

OLYMPIA -- The State of Washington has been identified as one of the most digitally-advanced state governments in the nation, according to the Digital States Survey.  The comprehensive, biennial study examines best practices, policies and progress made by state governments in their use of digital technologies to better serve citizens and streamline operations.

Washington jumped to 6th place from their previous rating at 16th in 2006.  Ratings were made after judges examined technology issues such as service delivery, infrastructure, collaboration, and leadership.

"Washington continues to be nationally recognized for our outstanding achievements in technology and government," said Governor Chris Gregoire. "This is another example of our state's commitment to serving Washingtonians while increasing state government efficiency." 

Placement was determined by the Center for Digital Government, a national research and advisory institute on information technology policies and best practices in state and local government. The survey is the nation's only survey of state governments' use of technology in serving the citizen.

The top ten ranked states will be honored at an awards ceremony hosted by the Center for Digital Government, held concurrently with the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) in Milwaukee, WI, next week.