MANAGING TECHNOLOGY 2008

Information technology spending slows because of a costly war. Personal information and sensitive data leaks become floods. Congress probes one procurement scandal after another. IT project failures mount. Expect more of the same in 2008, plus new challenges, too. IT managers, consultants, contractors and researchers said privacy and information security will remain high priorities. Congress will continue scrutinizing procurement practices. Health care automation will pick up steam. Deadlines will continue to shape IT agendas. Meeting deadlines and complying with guidelines and rules is one thing. Making IT work to improve service and performance is another. If 2007 is any indication, 2008 could find agencies straining to deliver results. Experts offer suggestions to improve the chances that new initiatives will pay off. These include: 1. Protect personal data. 2. Update the net. 3. Contract with care. 4. Watch your health. 5. Meet security standards.