APRIL 2016CIOAPPLICATIONS.COM8In My OpinionRenee Wynn, CIO, NASALeveraging Data as an Enterprise AssetCurrent Technological Challenges and Potential Solutions: I see two challenges ­ protection and use of data. For cyber protection, I would wish for tools that alert the users to potential threats, by such means as disabling questionable links, and identifying and isolating anomalies within a network. NASA has a massive amount of data. I'd also like tools that make it easier to share and experiment with that data, including tools that can be used by lay users.360 Degree View of Customers: NASA is organized by missions and programs that each collects their own, unique data sets. Inventorying data, as you would any other asset, and determining where data requirements intersect and/or overlap is a complex and complicated endeavor.This year, we hired NASA's first ever data scientist to help do this across the enterprise. One of his top projects, which we refer to as "Mapping the (NASA) Data Universe," will require tracking down all data across the agency and with our partners, such as those in academia. From this effort, we will develop ways to refine our methods of collecting, storing, analyzing, sharing and archiving our data as an enterprise and as an asset.Creating Competitive Edge: NASA's mission pushes the boundaries of science and technology, from the capabilities that support our astronauts aboard the International Space Station 250 miles above, to those we're developing for future deep space missions, including our journey to Mars. The job of the office of the CIO is to ensure that we're providing IT support that meets the needs of our engineers and scientist, so that together we can make great discoveries happen.Advancement in Technology and Future Trends: There are two work related items that can rouse me from a deep slumber ­ my people and protecting NASA's IT assets. I also worry about whether or not my people are inspired. It's important to me they have what they need to succeed. I want them to know they are valued and I want to give and receive good feedback.It is important to me to make sure our work is constantly improving our security posture. We also need to ensure we are applying the most current and stringent security criteria to potential IT investments. And we need to measure the right things in order to evaluate our effectiveness in terms of the agency's success.
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