Digital modernization efforts that don't include a domain expert are doomed to fail

Digital modernization efforts that don't include a domain expert are doomed to fail
Feb 15, 2024
1 MIN. READ

Our latest survey of 500 federal leaders highlights the critical role that subject-matter experts play in digital modernization.

Domain experts can interpret and validate data, providing insight and guidance to key stakeholders in digital modernization projects. Their role is so mission-critical that three-quarters of mission leaders (75%) agree that digital modernization efforts that don’t include a domain expert are doomed to fail. IT (88%) and data analytics (80%) pros, who work more closely to the modernization efforts, are even more likely to be domain expert advocates.

While the consequences of not using a domain leader vary in severity, the prime concerns are the impact on end-users. Mission leaders report resistance to adoption of new tools by end-users as the leading consequence (58%), followed by frustration among end-users (50%) and technology solutions that don’t meet the end-users’ needs (49%).

Our latest research explores the data and technology trends shaping 2024 agency missions. From a strong data foundation to safe AI implementation, learn everything you need to accelerate your mission here.