Georgia Enterprise Technology Services

The Georgia Enterprise Technology Services (GETS) program is the state's shared IT services program*, delivering computing and managed network services to state and local government agencies in Georgia.

In ensuring the program meets today's technology needs, GTA has adopted a cloud-first approach to GETS services.

What do you mean, cloud-first?

At its core, it means shifting from running servers at the state's data center to getting server services instead from commercial cloud service providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure. State government systems and applications (e.g., tax systems, public assistance programs) will then run in modern cloud environments.

The benefits are compelling

• Server service that's on-demand and quickly adjustable
• Greater administrative control over server environments for agencies
• Access to a wider range of technology services
• In step with the direction of the technology industry
• Costs that may promote substantial savings for the state

More than a change of venue for servers

The switch from on-premise to cloud server environments is just part of the story. Related IT services also change flavor in the process. That includes functions like incident management, backup, security, and disaster recovery, among others. The state's mainframe computing service too will migrate to the cloud.

How do we get to the cloud?

There's still some distance to cover, but migrations are well under way. A growing number of agencies now have systems operating in the cloud. Others are on the threshold of transition with more in the queue. GTA is helping guide migrations with help from service providers practiced in cloud transformation. GTA is also providing access for agencies to varied cloud training resources, from self-guided to instructor-led sessions. Operations are different at cloud altitude, and the training will help prepare agencies for new practices.

*Through the GETS program, GTA makes available high-quality, up-to-date IT services from leading technology service providers. State agencies can manage their own consumption of those services, purchasing combinations and quantities that best meet their changing business needs.