The Columbus Department of Technology’s (DOT) support of the Mayor’s and City leader’s technology initiatives is crucial in today's rapidly evolving world. Technology drives innovation and progress, and helps to make resident lives more connected, efficient, and sustainable. By supporting these important technology initiatives, the City and DOT are investing in the future and helping ensure both the City and Columbus remain adaptable, safe, and competitive in an increasingly digital world.
DIGITAL EQUITY AND INCLUSION
Supplier and Workforce diversity: Supplier diversity is a procurement practice fully supported by the Mayor and embraced by DOT, which requires the purposeful inclusion of diverse suppliers to bid opportunities to increase their representation in City contacts. The practice is a powerful strategy for growing and supporting the women and minority-owned businesses that are helping make Columbus a world leader in attracting technology development.
DOT also supports the City’s efforts in the recruitment, hiring and retention of a diverse workforce. This includes differences in gender, age, race, ethnicity, cultural background, religion, sexual orientation, and physical ability. Workforce diversity is important because it can help organizations improve their performance, competitiveness and openness by increasing creativity and innovation.
Digital inclusion is a concept and commitment that addresses the ability and opportunity of individuals and communities to access and use information and communication technologies, regardless of their background, income, or ability. It involves policies and programs that can provide affordable, robust, and accessible broadband internet service, as well as digital literacy and skills. Digital inclusion is meant to be a practical and holistic approach that meets the needs of Columbus’ diverse and disadvantaged residents.
OPEN DATA
Open data is digital information that is available to everyone. DOT works with City department data providers to present City leaders with the information needed to make informed decisions from a centralized portal. It also makes the data available to other municipalities, research and education institutions, and residents.
SAFETY CAMERA TECHNOLOGY
Safety camera technology, such as public facility, neighborhood, and body-worm cameras, play a pivotal role in promoting safety, deterring criminal activities, aiding law enforcement, encouraging accountability, and enhancing overall security and well-being in Columbus. However, it is essential to strike a balance between public safety and privacy concerns, ensuring that these technologies are used responsibly and in compliance with legal and ethical standards.
FIBER
The City of Columbus’ Department of Technology manages the largest municipally-owned fiber networks in the United States. With over 1,000 miles of fiber, DOT uses the resource to support Smart City initiatives, improve connectivity, enhance data security and increase network reliability.