While the parameters remain uncertain, agencies’ goal of optimizing productivity and efficiency will continue to require secure, modern IT ecosystems. Connectivity is critical to ensuring that workers can access the applications they need and collaborate effectively. At the same time, IT leaders must continually adapt their cybersecurity strategies to address new challenges, such as the significant increase in data at the edge and the emergence of new, sophisticated hacking capabilities. Emphasis on data protection and identity management is crucial to enabling secure, continually authenticated access to enterprise data. Meanwhile, with users connecting to federal networks through many devices — some of which may be personal devices — agencies must focus on ensuring that all are properly managed and secured.

FUNDAMENTAL CONNECTIVITY: Efficient networks are a cornerstone of productivity for both in-office users and field-workers who need to connect to enterprise networks. Agencies must be able to maintain instantaneous, robust, reliable and secure connectivity for users, preferably with multiple alternative network options. However, frustration with networks is widespread; in one survey, 82% of agency respondents said their networks hinder their ability to meet mission demands.

HOLISTIC DATA PROTECTION: Agencies can no longer rely on perimeter protections around internal networks. Data protection and identity management solutions are essential to keep data secure wherever it resides. These tools, supported by proper policies, continually authenticate employees seeking to access data. The newest best practice, quantum encryption, defends against hackers using quantum computing to ascertain passwords with unprecedented efficiency.

Agencies’ use of AI is expanding rapidly, with 72% of federal workers reporting that their agencies have made AI applications available.

Increase Agency Productivity: AI tools, particularly generative AI, are becoming commonplace in federal agencies, with 64% of senior staffers employing AI daily. The use of AI to summarize information, conduct research and generate ideas increases workers’ efficiency and creativity, while also creating more time for complex work. AI-enhanced collaboration platforms, such as Microsoft Teams, perform administrative tasks such as capturing searchable meeting notes and assigning action items. In early 2025, OpenAI released ChatGPT Gov, a version of the generative AI tool customized for federal government users. Processors such as Google Document AI ease data management by extracting, categorizing and validating data. The latter capabilities empower agencies to make better use of their data assets by leveraging AI-powered analysis to derive actionable insights.

Streamline Citizen Services: AI tools are also transforming citizen services, particularly through chatbots that automate information access and help citizens complete basic tasks. Chatbots deployed across agency websites, mobile apps and social media complement omnichannel strategies, while freeing human workers to handle more advanced requests. AI also helps to drive service improvements by making agency workflows faster and more efficient. For example, the SSA uses predictive modeling to expedite processing of disability benefit claims, while Veterans Affairs uses AI to analyze veterans’ feedback to identify individuals who may need mental health support. AI tools such as FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance Chatbot also improve citizen services by streamlining workers’ access to critical information and helping new workers get up to speed quickly.