Magazine

TexasOnline, State of Texas

December 1, 2001

ridging the levels of government is a key component of electronic services. Texas has created a portal where citizens can obtain state, county and city services in one place. TexasOnline allows citizens to apply for building permits or renew their drivers' licenses online, for example. Launched in August 2000, the portal has already racked up almost 1 million visitors.

The site has also proved its financial worth by processing 32,000 transactions, ringing in at about $343 apiece. Citizens can pay fees by credit card or electronic funds transfer from a checking account. "TexasOnline is simple to use and easy to understand," says Phil Barrett, the site's director. "Now citizens don't have to stand in line or take time driving to a government office."

Texas has seen numerous benefits from the site, built with the help of KPMG Consulting. It has reduced the amount of paperwork to be processed. And the data it gets online provides more accurate statistics because public servants no longer have to decipher applicants' handwriting. Texas is hoping its cities and counties will piggyback on TexasOnline's infrastructure. Dallas, Houston and Mesquite plan to join TexasOnline. The state is hoping schools and universities will follow suit.

The judges also recognized the potential for Pay.gov, the federal government's central payment and forms processing portal, to grow into an award winner.

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