Navigating Shared Technology Services (STS)

DIR’s individual STS programs handle operational issues like change management and service level agreements, allowing government entities to better serve Texans. So, what exactly is offered? 

Data Center Services 

DIR’s Data Center Services (DCS) offer secure connectivity to public and private clouds that meet government security and disaster recovery requirements as well as flexible service tiers to meet various needs and budgets.  

By leveraging DCS, customers benefit from high-level security standards that implement and incorporate industry best practices. The program provides: 

• Independent security oversight and controls;
• Best practice design architecture;
• Secure network connectivity between public and private clouds;
• Economies of scale for technological and financial benefits;
• Industry-standard service delivery models; and
• Consistent managed services across all environments. 

Managed Security Services 

DIR’s Managed Security Services (MSS) is a part of DIR's Shared Technology Services program that focuses on ensuring strong and consistent management of state data security. 

Information technology (IT) Security has become increasingly important for state and local governments who have a need for heightened awareness of malicious threats and a greater emphasis on technology to protect sensitive information. Some key benefits of MSS include: 

• Security monitoring and device management services;
• Incident response services; and
• Risk and compliance services. 

Texas.gov Services 

As the state’s official website, Texas.gov offers an online portal and payment services to Texas state agencies and eligible local government organizations. At a high level, Texas.gov helps government conduct business with their customers efficiently and in compliance with state requirements for accessibility, security, privacy, and integration with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. 

Key Texas.gov services include: 

• Online services supported by a, uninterrupted, unimpeded multi-channel and multi-lingual help desk;
• Digital government experience that's easier, faster, and more secure for public government business needs;
• Digital identity solution (to streamline identity proofing and verification), multi-factor authentication, and single sign-on access;
• Constituent application development and ongoing maintenance, testing, and operations support to solve business challenges;
• Website design and development services; and
• Fee pay (coming soon!) as a fully hosted online application that easily and securely accepts various payments. 

Open Data Portal 

The Texas Open Data Portal is the official repository for publicly accessible open data sets in the state of Texas. It allows state agencies and eligible DIR customers to publish open, non-regulated, non-personally identifiable information data sets on a publicly accessible website. 

The Open Data Portal is a free service for Texas government entities that offers valuable opportunities. It allows constituents to access data on their own schedule and from their own device, while also helping to redirect information requests from Texans. With the Open Data Portal, agencies can: 

• Access the Open Data Portal to streamline data-sharing processes, saving time and resources;
• Cut down on expenses associated with traditional information dissemination methods; and
• Better manage information requests effectively, freeing up resources for other organizational priorities 

Questions? 

We are ready to help you reach your goals! Visit our playlist on YouTube that is all about Shared Technology Services. For more resources, visit the Shared Technology Services webpage on our website. If you’re ready to take advantage of what DIR’s STS have to offer, visit the STS portal so you can get started. Let’s grow a more secure state together! 

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