Kundra echoes Obama’s complaints about fed technology

The administration has touted cloud computing, transparency and embracing consumer technologies as the keys to improving the performance of federal IT investments. But longtime observers caution the reason the process is so complex is the myriad of regulations surrounding federal contracting.

Most good-government groups and federal IT experts trace the root of the government’s technology problems to a shortage of qualified IT personnel and contracting officers capable of evaluating bids and managing technology projects.

But expanding the federal contracting workforce is a tough sell in the current budgetary climate. Additionally, the government must compete with technology firms that offer higher salaries and more rapid career development for individuals with the necessary engineering and technical skills.