Technology Initiatives in the Obama-Biden Administration

Well known for his skilled use of technology during the presidential campaign, President-elect Barack Obama has named a Technology, Innovation & Government Reform Working Policy Group to help the new administration quickly implement an “Innovation Agenda”.

 

According to the Obama-Biden Transition Web site, change.gov, the group’s goal is “to create a 21st century government that is more open and effective; leverages technology to grow the economy, create jobs, and solve our country’s most pressing problems; respects the integrity of and renews our commitment to science; and catalyzes active citizenship and partnerships in shared governance with civil society institutions.”

 

The working group is broken into four sub teams and is headed by three people: Blair Levin, the former Chief of Staff to Chairman Reed Hundt at the Federal Communications Commission from 1993 through 1997; Sonal Shah, who heads Google.org’s global development efforts; and Julius Genachowski, co-founder of Rock Creek Ventures and LaunchBox Digital.

 

Sonal also worked at the Department of Treasury from 1995-2002 on various economic issues, and Genachowski served at the Federal Communications Commission from 1994 to 1997.

 

Some important technology issues expected to be addressed by the Obama Administration include copyright, data security, expansion of broadband to all communities in the U.S., network neutrality, research and investment in science and technology, and enhanced communication/greater transparency of Federal government activities.

 

President-elect Obama is widely expected to appoint the nation’s first chief technology officer (CTO).