BIT Tech Topics

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To better serve you, The Bureau of Information & Telecommunications (BIT) has launched it's first "BIT Tech Topics". Everyone is welcome to attend and learn the latest trends. This type of quarterly forum allows for open communication and the option to showcase some new “techy” items from industry experts.

Let's check out the five topics that were discussed during the last BIT Tech Topics Presentation.

Topic 1: Single Sign on Authentication & My SD Portal presented by Jeff Meyer

We all understand the importance of security, passwords are an important part of this. But we’ve all been there, scrambling for that post-it or searching on our phones for the right password. It can be challenging to remember all your passwords. Single sign on authentication can help with this and is now being considered an industry standard. The user signs in one time with one password to access all applications. 

If that didn't make your life easier, it also allows the freedom to reset your own passwords and cut back on service desk tickets. Currently 50% of service tickets throughout the IT industry are for password resets. Providing you the ability to reset your own password allows your agency to stay on task while indirectly reducing development costs. 

So, toss out those sticky notes and contact your BIT Point of Contact to get your agency started with Single Sign on Authentication.

Topic 2: Microsoft SharePoint presented by DJ Hausmann

We understand that in today’s business the ability to easily access, update and share information is the norm. SharePoint offers the ability to access data on the go which makes it a powerful tool for your agency. SharePoint is web based and can be accessed anywhere at any time. Why use SharePoint? The ability to collaborate within a document at the same time as another co-worker is key. No more annoying alerts that the “document is locked for editing”. We all know that patience is a virtue, but when it comes to collaborating on a project, don't have patience just use SharePoint. 

This cloud-based storage platform also includes a search option. Search anything from keywords, author, date… the list goes on and on. SharePoint allows you the control to search how you want. Contact us to set up a meeting to learn more about how this powerful tool can be used in your agency.

Topic 3: ServiceNow presented by Amanda Jost & Ryan Ogan


The Service Desk is here to assist you and keep things moving as smoothly as possible. With all the changes happening in the IT world we need to be able to service and track issues in a timely manner. Currently we’ve been managing this in the HEAT system which is getting a little aged. ServiceNow will be replacing HEAT. This platform allows BIT more flexibility and management to better serve your needs.

One area of ServiceNow that will be launching soon is the “help yourself” area. This allows users to type in the issue they are having and ServiceNow will offer a few suggestions for you to try. This again, puts the control back into your hands, cutting down on your service desk tickets and offering instant helpful tips.  Stay tuned for more updates on ServiceNow as BIT continues to roll out this management platform.

Topic 4: Multi-Factor Authentication presented by Brent Dowling

Multi-Factor Authentication or better known as a “two step verification” is another way to identify a user. But why is multi-factor authentication, also known as MFA, so important? It's simple, identity is everything and protecting your identity is imperative. This starts with protecting your email and the #1 best way to protect your email is a multi-factor authentication. Protecting your email is how we can protect your identity. If you would like more information about why or when a multi-factor authentication is used, contact your Point of Contact or read all about this two-step verification system here.

Topic 5: Data Encryption presented by Harold Bruce

Data encryption translates your data into another code so only people with access can read it. Similar to the other topics discussed in the Tech Topics above, it adds a level of security and protection to the sensitive information you house within your agency.

In case you weren’t aware, the BIT Information Technology Security Policy (ITSP) Data Encryption policy (section 401.5.1) was updated in March 2019. This covers rules for storing sensitive data used by application and systems, such that all data must be encrypted by June 30, 2024.

Our goal is to make this transition as simple as possible for your agency. Reach out to your Point of Contact to schedule a meeting to review the scope of this project to plan and budget for the 2024 deadline.


We at BIT are committed to giving you exceptional service. Let us know how we are doing. Fill out this online survey so we can get direct input from you. To watch the entire BIT Tech Topics presentation and follow along with the PowerPoint click here. 

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