How AI can help accelerate IT modernization for a more efficient U.S. federal government

U.S. federal agencies have been developing and implementing AI for over a decade as part of their IT modernization journeys, driving advancements in operational efficiency, productivity and decision-making. Despite progress and pockets of success, outdated and complex IT infrastructures and applications still limit their ability to fully realize the benefits of AI at scale. Enter AI-enabled application modernization. 

Vanessa Hunt, general manager of technology for IBM’s U.S. federal market, explained that generative AI is improving many aspects of IT modernization and providing substantial value to agencies. 

“Generative AI-enabled application modernization is a game-changer for federal agencies looking to accelerate their IT transformation,” said Hunt. “By leveraging AI and automation for key modernization processes like legacy system migrations and upgrades, or repetitive tasks like code conversion and generation, agencies can enhance organizational efficiency and security while reducing manual efforts and errors.”

AI can also help optimize resource allocation within agencies undergoing modernization, leading to reduced costs and improved performance by identifying inefficient processes and areas for improvement across an agency’s IT infrastructure and operations. 

“Big picture, AI can make the IT modernization process more affordable, scalable and manageable for federal agencies,” said Hunt. 

Emerging AI trends shaping federal IT modernization

The landscape of federal IT modernization is constantly evolving, with new AI-driven innovations emerging at a rapid pace. As agencies plan for the future, key AI trends will reshape their approach to modernization. 

According to Hunt, AI-enabled application modernization offers a pathway for agencies to more quickly shift from outdated systems to agile, efficient and scalable applications. However, modernization requires the right strategies, the right tools and a focus on collaboration and planning.

“Partnering with industry leaders like IBM can help agencies maximize AI for their missions,” said Hunt. “And ultimately, with access to cutting edge expertise, tools and strategies, agencies can unlock the transformative power of AI to accelerate their IT modernization efforts and simplify how work gets done for a smarter and more efficient government.”

Click to learn how IBM is leveraging AI to modernize federal agency IT systems.