ITAA survey: Security supersedes e-gov

Security and how it relates to developing a governmentwide enterprise architecture overtook e-government as the single most pressing issue facing federal CIOs, according to a survey released yesterday by the Information Technology Association of America.In the industry trade association’s 12th annual Survey of Federal CIOs, dealing with Sept. 11 fallout is front and center for many CIOs.ITAA interviewed 29 CIOs and information resource managers from civilian and defense agencies between September and December of last year.Agency technology officials said their security concerns fall into four categories:The survey found that CIOs want to modernize their IT infrastructures to make them less vulnerable to attack. Many also said security improvements are necessary before e-government projects can be effective.Meanwhile, e-government moved down a slot in the priority hierarchy for many CIOs. The study found CIOs were frustrated with the slow movement to transaction capabilities that are needed to meet the Government Paperwork Elimination Act. Many CIOs cited lack of resources as the main reason for having trouble meeting the mandate.Technology officials also discussed the CIO’s leadership role in government. The study found CIOs have some reservations about the focus OMB is putting on the e-government initiatives without supplying resources and infrastructure attention to security matters.CIOs also supported the concept of agency CXO groups, which would bring together the CIO, chief financial officer, chief procurement officer and chief human resource officer to improve communication and IT decision-making.The survey can be found at .