CDW-G Survey Shows Five States Ahead of IT Security Curve
February 22, 2006 12:47 PM ET
According to a recent survey by CDW Government (CDW-G), five states invest up to 76 percent more in information security than the national average, with Ohio ranking as top in the three categories of network security, security software and antivirus software. Of course, investment in technology is only one piece of the security puzzle. Solution providers able to provide the associated integration and support services will be in high demand for states making serious commitments to their security investments.
CDW-G, with the Center for Digital Government, surveyed its several thousand state and local customers about purchases of information security between 2000 and 2004. Michigan, Wisconsin, Washington and Massachusetts also fell ahead of the curve in terms of investment. Important to note is that the report compares states according to an overall index, not dollars spent, to create a level playing field regardless of budget size.
"There was consistency across all states in the actual technology being procured -- hardware and network security, antispam and antivirus components, and so on," says Andy Lausch, director of sales for state and local government at CDW-G. "They're investing in all of them, and recognize that security is not a one-size-fits-all proposition."
Of course, investment in these technologies doesn't mean enhanced security if the states don't implement them properly or fully. For the integrators out there, the survey offers a peek at states that may need a helping hand. "We're not saying that Ohio is the most secure state," Lausch says. "Rather, states need to look at how these products are implemented. And that's really where the [integrator] community comes into play. It's important for the public-sector customer to work with [industry] partners that can help assess their needs and implement the portfolio of offerings properly."
The results also showcase what encourages investment. According to the report and to conversations with the stakeholders that contributed, states that scored well had a few commonalities -- including strong academic programs in information-assurance education for government users, a long-term strategy, and strong IT and legislative leadership at the state, county and city levels.
"It's more than just spending; it's also the budget-allocation process," Lausch says. "These need to be areas where legislators understand the technology as a means of taking care of their citizens."
|
Public Display: Hot Scenes From XChange Public Sector Hundreds of VARs, integrators, vendors and analysts descended on the Sawgrass Marriott in Jacksonville, Fla., last week for XChange Public Sector. Here's a look at what you missed if you weren't there, from heated health-care and government discussion to just plain heat. |
|
CRN 2010 Public Sector Awards: Meet The Big Winners CRN saluted four vendors and five VARs and integrators at XChange Public Sector in Jacksonville. Have a look at who took home the hardware this year, including Public Sector Integrator of the Year. |
|
10 Burning Questions For The Public Sector Channel As XChange Public Sector kicks off in Jacksonville June 12, here's a look at some of the most pressing issues for public sector VARs and integrators, from cybersecurity and firm-fixed-price contracts to green technology and small business priorities. |
 More
Slide Shows |
