(US and Canada) Besa H. Bauta, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, State of Texas, Department of Family and Protective Services, speaks with Jeff Strane, Director of Government Strategy, SHI International Corp, in a video interview about the impact of digital transformation, using AI to augment clinical decision making and the need for efficient communication.

Bauta says that she thinks of data transformation as surviving and evolving. She shares that state and government systems were entrenched and lacked agility. The transformation challenge was to break it into chunks with minor improvements that would make the organization adapt to change.

Highlighting her approach to integrating AI into digital transformation, Bauta emphasizes the application of artificial intelligence to augment decision making. She says that these technologies can support decision making and help decision makers stay ahead of the curve.

Bauta notes that the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services uses AI to augment clinical decision making. The goal is to expand the skills and expertise of clinicians, social workers and mental health professionals.

According to Bauta, AI implementation requires careful application and a clear end goal.

When asked how she creates a culture of innovation within the organization,  she mentions two steps:

• Creating safety to experiment without breaking the house.

• Hearing the team when things are not working and paying attention to the obvious signs. 

Bauta points out that communication, though often difficult, is crucial for successful digital transformation. She says that leaders must figure out the communication aspect to work and navigate with other team members and external partners.

CDO Magazine appreciates Besa H. Bauta for sharing her insights and data success stories with our global community.

See more from Besa H. Bauta

Change Doesn’t Happen in a Vacuum