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In 1994, North Carolina recognized the need for a comprehensive enterprise architecture (EA) that outlined the state's strategy for implementing, managing, and supporting technology-based business solutions. Following the EA strategies and related initiatives would then position the state to maximize the returns and benefits of its investments in technology and reduce the associated risks. North Carolina began embracing an open architecture approach to information technology (IT) as early as 1977. In 1996, this vision was solidified through the development and implementation of the North Carolina Statewide Technical Architecture (www.ncsta.gov). "North Carolina was the first state to adopt a technical architecture, and in the several years since its initial publication, the architecture has evolved from a set of paper-based principles to serving as the unifying framework for IT investments across state government. The architecture provides guidance and best practices, and it represents a group effort between Information Technology Services and other state agencies." Bill Willis, Deputy Chief Information Officer, State of North Carolina By design, the North Carolina Statewide Technical Architecture (NCSTA) has become engrained in the IT culture of state government and within the vendor community. The effectiveness of this implementation has been accomplished through establishing clear architectural documents, processes, governance, and statewide IT procurement model. This framework helps ensure that the technology solutions agencies implement are aligned with business requirements and consistent with the principles, standards, and practices outlined within this body of work. A fundamental premise of the NCSTA is designing and deploying IT systems that are highly adaptable to changes in business and technology. An EA framework must also be adaptable in order to endure and succeed over time. The NCSTA has proven this adaptability by surviving changes in technology, government leadership, IT governance, legislative, and support staff. This is accomplished through an approach that allows, expects, and embraces change. The North Carolina Enterprise Architecture Program supports a significant portfolio of IT projects, in excess of $500 million since inception, and is the impetus behind many enterprise IT initiatives and common services. The NCSTA is managed centrally, but belongs to all agencies in state government. Throughout its life, the body of work is the result of the dedication of many individuals moderated by a keen understanding in the culture of North Carolina state government and the benefits of enterprise architecture.
OTHER NOMINATIONS: Click on the link to download program submission. Iowa Enterprise Authentication and Authorization Service Illinois Enterprise Architecture Kansas PKI Louisiana The DELTA Project-Modernizing Louisiana's Department of Revenue Michigan Criminal Justice Information Network (MiCJIN) Missouri Open Architecture Automated Newsfeed Nevada Network Virtualization Pennsylvania Enterprise Architecture Approach Virginia Enterprise Business Architecture
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