Government Effectiveness & Efficiency

Priority Goal

Improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness of state agencies through the adoption of effective policies, cutting-edge technology, and the use of efficient methodologies.

Why This Matters

This priority reinforces Tennessee's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation within state operations. The state seeks evidence on best practices for performance management, fiscal responsibility, responsive customer service, and strategic use of emerging technologies to serve the public interest.

Research Questions

a. Performance Management Best Practices

What are the best practices (e.g., PerformanceStat, policies, technology, processes, or methodologies) that the State agencies should utilize to ensure that performance management and data systems improve decision-making to benefit the operations and mission at multiple levels of the organization?

b. Real-Time Data Infrastructure

What is the feasibility and cost associated with developing the infrastructure and processes (e.g., system modernization, paper file digitization, novel data collection) needed to generate real-time monitoring data/indicators for critical service areas (e.g., economic, labor and workforce, childcare) in the State?

c. IT Project Cost Management

What are the underlying factors and systematic mechanisms contributing to cost overruns in large-scale state IT projects, and how do these factors interact with project planning, execution, and vendor management to affect return on investment?

d. Customer Service Optimization

What are the best practices for increasing customer engagement, eliminating ineffective touchpoints and duplicative requests, and streamlining service referrals to other agencies and resources that are most cost-effective?

e. User-Centric Tech & AI Integration

How can state agencies integrate user-centric design and advanced technologies (e.g., generative AI) to tailor services that meet citizens' needs, considering the constraints of regulatory and policy adherence?

f. Housing Development Decision-Making

What changes to process, policy, or capacity are needed to improve how location is prioritized in housing development to ensure that the right type of housing is built in appropriate locations?