Author Archive
People
Can't we all just get along?
Some friction between senior careerists and political appointees is inevitable, but a little empathy can go a long way.
Modernization
We can’t afford another 6-year telecom transition
Great work has been done on the General Services Administration's Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions contract, but the hard work has barely begun.
Modernization
NS2020 EIS: Another step forward for GSA
The agency's latest approach to telecom contracting builds on its past successes while embracing competition and innovation.
Modernization
Common-sense techniques to save taxpayer dollars
Basic business concepts such as price transparency can drive big savings. We need to apply them more broadly.
People
IT systems as a team sport
HealthCare.gov has everyone focused on technology and acquisition, but Bob Woods argues that the real emphasis should be on knowing one's stakeholders.
People
The likely decline of the CIO
FITARA's effort to make CIOs political appointees reflects a rift between lawmakers and those who actually run government programs, says Bob Woods.
People
Don't take your posse to your new job
Coming into an agency as the new sheriff in town is hard enough. Don’t make it worse by importing your inner circle.
People
Who cares about awards anyway?
If you think winning an award is gratifying, try nominating an unsung hero and see how good it feels when he or she wins.
Digital Government
Defending 'tombstone thinking'
The Conversation: FCW's reporters, contributors and editors respond to your comments.
People
The value of tombstone thinking
It is easy to zero in on the activities that matter when you consider your accomplishments in terms of an epitaph, writes Bob Woods.
People
Overcoming IT skepticism: 7 steps to creating a new culture
Studies show that most government leaders are unsurprised when IT projects are delivered late, over budget or scrapped before being implemented. But there is a way to dramatically improve the chances for success. Bob Woods and Marybeth Fraser offer some key steps to make it happen.
Featured eBooks
People
The dangers of consultant-speak
Trendy buzzwords should never be allowed to obscure the fact that IT consulting is all about having a positive effect on the mission and the bottom line, writes Bob Woods.
People
Presidential transitions: Your chance to shine
With a little preparation, senior leaders can rise to the top during a transition, but the time to act is now, writes Bob Woods
People
Smart decision-making for poets
Federal managers can simplify a complex decision-making process -- and ensure success -- by anticipating and addressing concerns in four basic areas.
People
How to get along with Congress
Testifying before a congressional committee doesn’t have to be an ordeal. These tips can help agency leaders stay calm and focused under fire.
People
What's with all these chiefs?
Why are there so many chiefs in government? And if that word is in your title, are you a hotshot or a hat rack?
Modernization
Networx: A look at its origins
The government has undertaken three major telecom transitions, columnist Bob Woods writes, and there are important lessons to be learned from each of them.
People
When leaders don't lead
IT leaders should not disregard the value of knowing something about IT, writes columnist Bob Woods.
Acquisition