Key Takeaways from the CBP IT Strategy 2024-2028
The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) IT Strategy for 2024-2028 provides a clear roadmap for government contractors to conform with the agency's changing technological landscape. The strategy, led by the Office of Information and Technology (OIT), is more than just maintaining and improving existing systems; it is about transforming CBP's IT infrastructure, applications, and operational technology to support its critical mission of protecting America's borders while facilitating legal trade and travel. For federal contractors, this plan provides multiple chances to both contribute to and benefit from CBP's ambitious aims.
The approach has six strategic objectives: mission infrastructure, mission applications, operational/information technology, cybersecurity, IT/IRM governance, and CIO business operations. Each of these areas offers contractors unique chances to provide new solutions and services. For example, under Mission Infrastructure, CBP is working to build a consolidated business network with edge-to-edge security and improve its fundamental enterprise cloud computing capabilities. This effort would necessitate scalable and cost-effective cloud services, providing an excellent opportunity for cloud service providers and IT infrastructure specialists to contribute their skills.
Furthermore, the approach highlights the need for scalable and dependable mission applications. CBP attempts to create mission-aligned apps using a domain-driven design that makes use of centralized shared services based on user needs. This transition indicates a need for contractors who specialize in application development, particularly those with experience designing secure, scalable apps that connect smoothly with existing CBP systems.
Another important aspect of the CBP IT Strategy is operational and information technology. With the growing volume of data generated and consumed at the edge, CBP intends to invest in edge computing and related infrastructure. This shift toward integrating physical equipment into the digital realm will necessitate innovative technology solutions that are both affordable and scalable. Contractors with expertise in edge computing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence will have plenty of possibilities to contribute to this area, especially in building solutions that improve CBP's data processing capabilities in distant and mobile locations.
Cybersecurity is a major component of CBP's IT strategy. As cyber attacks become more complex, CBP is determined to bridge the gap between them and its cybersecurity defenses. The strategy specifies a transition to a Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), which will necessitate strong cybersecurity measures to secure CBP's systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access. For cybersecurity organizations, this gives an opportunity to provide solutions that are consistent with CBP's proactive, risk-based approach to cybersecurity. Contractors who can provide sophisticated threat detection, endpoint detection and response (EDR) technologies, and user behavior analytics would be very helpful in achieving CBP's cybersecurity objectives.
The approach emphasizes the need for better IT/IRM governance. CBP intends to increase its IT governance skills in order to maximize enterprise-wide efficiencies and client experiences. This goal will need the integration of enterprise-wide IT governance processes to facilitate mission interoperability and decision-sharing. Contractors with expertise in IT governance, policy compliance, and business intelligence will see possibilities to help CBP achieve these goals by offering organized processes, tools, and frameworks that improve decision-making and operational efficiency.
CIO Business Operations is another area where contractors can play an important role. CBP is working to improve the integration of CIO Business Operations services to provide comprehensive, end-to-end services throughout the agency. This will necessitate a methodical approach to procurement, acquisition support, and talent management. Contractors who can provide solutions to improve cost and budget transparency, optimize procurement procedures, and improve personnel management will be well-positioned to help CBP meet its business operations objectives.