Embracing Innovation and Technology

In FY22, the Information Technology Department (ITD) bolstered the resilience and protection of City systems and information amidst rising cybersecurity threats and rolled out new tools, training, and support to expand hybrid work environments as COVID-19 impacted onsite workforce availability. Staff found agile solutions for new business requirements, provided essential services, and implemented new systems and applications.

IT Strategic Plan. The City’s consultant, the Gartner Group, issued a progress report to the City highlighting major achievements, areas meriting focus, and extraordinary efforts in response to COVID-19.

Cybersecurity. Key security and resiliency achievements include publishing the City’s first Written Information Security Policy (WISP), a 90% completion rate for staff cybersecurity training, a higher rating from the Center for Internet Security (CIS), successful 3rd party penetration testing, rollout of stronger password protection, implementation of new document encryption, network equipment upgrades, and setup of unified endpoint management.

Websites and Open Data. In collaboration with the Public Information Office, Cambridge Police and Community Development departments, launched two new websites, Cambridgepolice.org, and Cambridgema.gov/envision. Also deployed numerous microsites, including Cambridge STEAM Initiative, Cycling Safety Ordinance, Vision Zero, Resilient Cambridge, and Public Space Lab. Collaborated with departments to create dashboards to convey data-driven insights to key stakeholders. Upgraded map data assets on the Open Data Portal to achieve a more modern appearance and improved interactivity while enabling tighter integration between open data and GIS resources. Published dozens business diversity, COVID-19 vaccinations, residential rent economics, and sustainable buildings. GIS. Created new wards and precincts for the Board of Election Commissioners from 2020 Census data leading to the redistricting map approved by the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Developed a new interactive GIS map with public art locations for Cambridge Arts; created interactive maps for several City departments; developed GIS field apps and surveys for Sanitary Inspectors; acquired a new high resolution orthophoto available to the public, and launched 3D model data, including buildings and bridges on the City website.

Enhanced Preschool and Community School Application and Lottery Systems. The Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) partnered with ITD to develop online application and lottery systems for Preschool, Community Schools Summer Camp, and Community Schools Afterschool Programs, using Viewpoint technology. The new application and lottery feature provided an improved user experience.

Data Management for Child and Youth Serving Programs. ITD and DHSP continued to enhance the Trax online registration and enrollment management system for child and youth serving programs including improved data collection, analysis, and increased opportunities for cross program referral and support.