Key GovTech Trends and Takeaways from 2024 Conferences
December 18, 2024 by Dani McArthur
Information technology leaders lead busy lives. It’s not always possible to carve out the time to attend industry conferences, despite the networking and resource-sharing value they deliver. Fortunately, the Tyler Technologies team is on-site annually at hundreds of events. Just a few of the conferences we participated in this year included:
- National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) Annual Conference
- National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference
- International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Conference
- National League of Cities (NLC) City Summit
- Esri User Conference
As 2024 concludes, here are some of the major trends and lessons we noted at this year’s key partner conferences and events.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage Grows
It’s no surprise that artificial intelligence (AI) was a major topic at conferences in 2024. At the NACo Conference, it was reported that more than 75% of officials are using AI tools in some capacity. NACo formally released the AI County Compass to help county leaders implement AI strategies for modernizing operations. Attendees at ICMA heard the message loud and clear that AI is no longer a distant idea — it’s ready today — and saw a demonstration of how AI and machine learning are helping local governments quickly convert traditional line-item budgets into priority-based budgets. NASCIO took a closer look at early-stage adoption of generative AI and which business practices are benefiting. In addition, they explored the ongoing conversation around issues such as privacy, public records, and open data laws.
IT Forecast Calls for Increased Cloud Computing
At Tyler, we’ve seen the rapid spread of cloud computing in the government sector. Nearly 90% of new clients opt for cloud computing solutions, up from 50% as recently as 2018. The momentum and the reasons for it were clear at conferences in 2024. At NASACT, attendees learned how cloud-based solutions improve cybersecurity and can be used to simplify inbound and outbound payments. NLC participants discussed the challenges of reaching specific populations, such as seniors and the unhoused. They agreed that making digital government accessible to all residents is a priority, something cloud computing simplifies. Cynthia Moran, IT manager for DeKalb County, Georgia, shared some implementation advice at NACo: “Bring everyone together, make sure you have a clear method of communication, a system for reporting issues, regular meetings, and document your current process to make sure that they are included when you move to SaaS.”
Continuing to Modernize the Digital Infrastructure
The overarching goal of deploying modern technology to help governments build connected, resilient communities could be seen and heard across conferences. Many sessions at ICMA focused on how governments can use technology to create a more unified and efficient experience for residents. Attendees saw how government agencies using disparate systems can shift to an agency-wide solution that simplifies back-office processes, reporting, reconciliation, and security compliance. At NASCIO, state CIOs shared their stories and advice regarding facing and recovering from cyberattacks and natural disasters.
Partnerships Work
As noted at NACo, NLC, and other conferences, implementing new technology and migrating to the cloud is much easier with a trusted partner. Across the country, conference attendees learned about effective partnerships to navigate the process of pursuing modernization goals. Whether public-private or peer-to-peer, technology partnerships enable government IT departments to take advantage of a wider array of resources, expertise, and innovative solutions to complex challenges.
A Look Ahead
Modern technologies transform government operations, empowering cities, counties, and states to enhance efficiency, security, and community engagement. Conferences and industry events are key resources for sharing information on the road together to a more connected future. Tyler is proud to sponsor many of them and will continue to do so in 2025. We hope to see you there!
Additional Resources
Take a deeper dive into our content sharing observations from 2024 events: