Government agencies are often stereotyped as slow-moving and resistant to innovation. The public sector operates under unique challenges that require careful navigation, such as strict compliance requirements, security protocols, budget limitations, and regulatory frameworks. These constraints, however, are not roadblocks but opportunities for thoughtful, strategic innovation.

In this episode of #shifthappens, Dux Raymond Sy, Chief Brand Officer at AvePoint, and Javier Inclán, Assistant Inspector General for Management and CIO at the US National Science Foundation Office of Inspector General (NSF OIG), explore the critical role of technology in government – including digital transformation, diversity and inclusive initiatives, and the potential of generative AI to improve workplace efficiency in the public sector.

Diversity as a Catalyst for Innovation

Government agencies are finding innovative ways to leverage digital transformation and AI while keeping their core mission of public service at the forefront.

One of the most compelling aspects of Javier’s approach is his belief in diversity — not in terms of demographics, but in perspectives and experiences. Referencing “diversity of agency,” Javier emphasizes the value of working across different organizations to broaden one’s technological aperture.

Throughout his career, he’s been focused on customer service and digital transformation, always looking to improve efficiency and service delivery. “I’ve used [my] experience to build the next role,” Javier explains, “to have intelligent conversations with subject matter experts about what else we can do, what’s next, what’s the art of the possible.”

Cautious Optimism: Generative AI in the Government

Javier reveals a far more dynamic and forward-thinking reality. Contrary to popular belief, government agencies are not lagging behind the private sector in technological adoption. He points out that while private sectors might have more financial resources, government agencies are recruiting top talent and implementing cutting-edge solutions.

“I don’t think we’re behind. I think well-intended and necessary regulations require
the government to take certain steps before implementing new technology.”

Javier and his team are exploring generative AI with a balanced perspective. They’re not chasing flashy, transformative changes. Instead, they’re focusing on practical, day-to-day improvements that can genuinely help employees. Key AI exploration areas include:

• Developing chatbots for information retrieval instead of manually redacting identifying information from job applications to mitigate unconscious bias
• Assisting with job announcements and position descriptions
• Creating proactive onboarding support for new employees and streamlining performance appraisals

Javier’s approach consistently centers on human potential. “We want to save our colleagues time,” he emphasizes, “If they could save an hour a week, two hours a week, by using this technology, that would be revolutionary.”

Building a Culture of Technological Empowerment

The NSF OIG has embraced technological infrastructure that supports workplace flexibility, such as robust hybrid work environments, remote work capabilities, diverse geographical hiring, and accessibility for differently-abled professionals

The organization’s commitment to innovation is reflected in tangible metrics:

• 91% of diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility (DEIA) index score
• 90% of employee survey participation
• Continuous improvement through exit interviews and organizational scans

Throughout technological empowerment, Javier strongly believes in the human and AI partnership. “Humans with AI skills are going to take human jobs” — not AI replacing humans entirely. This echoes the broader industry sentiment of AI as a collaborative tool, highlighting the importance of upskilling and continuous learning.

Practical Advice for Leaders Embracing Technology

Javier offers three crucial tips for leaders navigating technological transformation:

1. Ensure Ethical Considerations: Prioritize ethics in all actions, decisions, and technological implementations to avoid potential pitfalls and backtracking.
2. Listen to Subject Matter Experts: Recognize and leverage the knowledge of subject matter experts who understand the intricacies of the technology and its applications.
3. Obtain Stakeholders’ Buy-In: Communicate the purpose, benefits, and potential impacts of new technologies to all stakeholders to foster understanding and support.

As we continue to navigate technological changes, leaders like Javier remind us that the most powerful transformations happen when we combine cutting-edge tools with compassionate, strategic leadership.

Javier represents a new breed of public servant — technologically savvy, inclusive, and mission-driven. His work at NSF OIG demonstrates that government innovation is not about replacing humans with technology, but empowering humans through technology.

The Road Ahead: Innovation with Intention

The future of government technology is not about radical, disruptive changes but intentional, human-centered innovation. As Javier puts it, the goal is to help “that person down the hallway” — making incremental improvements that collectively transform organizational effectiveness.

Government agencies are not only adapting to technological change but also actively shaping it. By maintaining a balance between rigorous oversight, employee empowerment, and technological curiosity, organizations like the NSF OIG are redefining what’s possible in public service.