The 25 most digitally-advanced state governments in the nation for the year 2006 have been identified by the Center for Digital Government. The states with the highest overall scores for 2006 are Michigan, Virginia, Ohio, Utah and Arizona. This year's survey is the first report on the transition of states to digital government since the 2004 elections.

The Digital States Survey, conducted annually by the Center for Digital Government (a division of eRepublic), is a comprehensive study that examines best practices, policies and progress made by state governments in their use of digital technologies to better serve their citizens and streamline operations. It provides a benchmark for the next generation of digital service delivery and reflects contemporary citizen expectations and the technologies used to meet them.

This year, the survey was sponsored by Verizon Business.

In June, the Center invited all state governors and their chief information officers to participate in the revised 2006 Digital States Survey. With more than 70 measurements in four broad areas: service delivery, architecture and infrastructure, collaboration, and leadership.

"With the right leadership, state governments can leverage information technology to greater enhance operations and serve their citizens," said Cathilea Robinett, executive director of the Center. "The states in the top 10 continue to advance 21st century governance and show their commitment to the future viability of their states."

"Information technology continues to play a critical role in creating efficiencies, and it remains at the heart of everything we are doing to provide government service to Michigan citizens," said Michigan Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm. "Whether it's making hunting and fishing licenses available online, or making it easier for businesses to get the permits they need, or providing an online talent bank for employers and job seekers to find each other, I'm proud of the many things we have done through technology to improve service to our citizens."

Michigan’s chief information officer, Teri Takai, echoed the governor: "I was thrilled when learning that we had been ranked number one again," Takai said. "It's rare to see back-to-back winners, as there are so many states out there doing wonderful things in government technology. This provides independent validation that we are still on the right track and that our partnerships with all of the state agencies are bringing value and benefits to those who live and work here in Michigan."

2006 Digital States Survey Top 25
1st Michigan
2nd Virginia
3rd Ohio
4th Utah
5th Arizona
6th Arkansas
7th South Dakota
8th Kentucky
9th Wisconsin
10th Tennessee
11th Minnesota
12th Maryland
13th Mississippi
14th Nebraska
15th Massachusetts
16th tie California
16th tie Washington
17th Texas
18th New York
19th tie Illinois
19th tie Kansas
20th Pennsylvania
21st Nevada
22nd tie Georgia
22nd tie North Carolina
23rd North Dakota
24th Colorado
25th Alabama

Contact the Center for Digital Government for more information on the 2006 Digital States Survey.

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