Developing the Strategic and Master Plan for Information and Communication Technology at the IT Agency of the State of Tocantins

Abstract

The rapid evolution of digital governance necessitates strategic planning to ensure efficiency, transparency, and adaptability in public service delivery. This paper presents the development of the Strategic and Master Plan for Information and Communication Technology (PEDTIC) at the Tocantins State Information Technology Agency (ATI/TO), a pivotal initiative aimed at strengthening digital transformation efforts in Tocantins, Brazil. The PEDTIC was built upon three foundational diagnostic assessments: the Governance of ICT, the Strategic IT Plan (PDTI), and the ABEP-TIC Index evaluation. These diagnostics provided a comprehensive analysis of ATI/TO’s digital service capabilities, governance structures, and alignment with state objectives. The methodological approach combined situational assessments, regulatory reviews, management interviews, and benchmarking against national best practices. The findings highlighted gaps in IT governance, data integration, and digital service effectiveness. By aligning ATI/TO’s strategic vision with the broader objectives of the Tocantins government, the PEDTIC establishes a framework that prioritizes structured governance, risk management, and the enhancement of public digital services. This study discusses the lessons learned from the diagnostic phase, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, cross-department collaboration, and proactive risk management in digital transformation. The PEDTIC provides a structured action plan with clearly defined objectives, performance indicators, and accountability mechanisms to ensure continuous improvement and adaptation. The results of this initiative have already led to a significant improvement in ATI/TO’s ranking in the ABEP-TIC Index, demonstrating tangible progress in digital governance. Additionally, this paper explores the implications of ATI/TO’s transformation towards a more strategic operational model, shifting from purely technical functions to a leadership role in state digital governance. The conclusions drawn highlight the critical need for structured digital strategies, ongoing capacity-building initiatives, and stakeholder engagement to sustain long-term advancements in public digital services. The PEDTIC serves as a case study for other government institutions aiming to implement structured and scalable digital transformation initiatives.