California builds new technology agency

California has established a new Department of Technology Services (DTS) from three existing technology offices to consolidate IT and telecommunications management in the state.

The creation of DTS will help strengthen the state's government technology structure and improve efficiency, Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said in a statement issued this week.

"The creation of the Department of Technology Services is an important step toward bringing California's state government technology structure into the 21st century," according to governor. "Californians deserve to have a government that serves them effectively and efficiently, and this reorganization is an important part of accomplishing that goal."

DTS consolidates the Stephen P. Teale and Health and Human Services data centers with the Department of General Services Office of Network Services under the jurisdiction of the State and Consumer Services Agency.

By combining these two large general purpose data centers with the organization responsible for telecommunications within state government, California expects to improve efficiency and eliminate the duplication of services.

The new agency will have a profound impact on IT management and operations, state officials said.

"We look forward to increased efficiency in operations, better delivery of customer services and an overall solid organization to serve our citizens. DTS will significantly change the way IT services are provided to state agencies," said Fred Aguiar, secretary of California's State and Consumer Agency.

Schwarzenegger has tapped Bob Austin to serve as chief deputy director and acting director of DTS. Austin will work closely with the State and Consumer Services Agency to ensure the department's smooth transition. DTS will have an operating budget of $235.4 million and will employ nearly 800 staff.