From Numbers to Narrative: Using Data as an Asset

11:15 AM-12:15 PM ET – Breakout Session Round 1

Attendees Can Earn 1 CPE Credit

When advocating for a new project, pitching an innovative idea or asking for funds for modernization, you must use data to back up your argument. But it isn’t easy to turn data into a compelling argument. In this breakout session, you will learn the art of data storytelling.

Key Takeaway: In this session, you’ll learn the basic principles of using data to craft a narrative that will draw others in and create a meaningful opportunity for dialogue.

Relevant Competencies: Business Acumen

Speakers:

Dr. Orgeron has extensive information technology experience in both the private sector and the federal and state levels of the public sector. Currently, Dr. Orgeron is Professor of Management Information Systems in the Else School of Management at Millsaps College. After beginning his career as a communications-computer systems officer in the United States Air Force, he served as the Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services (ITS) and Chief Information Officer for the State of Mississippi. Dr. Orgeron has served as an Executive Government Advisor with Amazon Web Services (AWS), as President of the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) and on the Executive Committee of the Multi-State Information Sharing & Analysis Center (MS-ISAC). Dr. Orgeron holds a bachelor’s degree in MIS, a master’s degree, a doctorate in public policy and administration from Mississippi State University and is a graduate of the Harvard University Business Analytics Program (HBAP).

Dr. Bill Rials is a nationally recognized subject matter expert on information technology, cybersecurity, and emerging technology trends. He has gained national recognition for his expertise and is a sought-after public speaker at various events, including webinars, conferences, and workshops. Dr. Rials is a regular contributor to national media outlets, where he provides insights and analysis on relevant topics. He also serves as a Senior Fellow for the Center for Digital Government. As a senior fellow, he leverages his extensive experience and expertise to provide research, guidance, and thought leadership to public service organizations nationwide, helping them effectively adopt digital government services. His success in support of public service has earned him a well-deserved reputation as a respected practitioner and scholar.

Prior to his academic career, he delivered value to state agencies, local governments, and law enforcement agencies in various executive-level positions, including CIO, CTO, and CISO roles. He also served in leadership positions within state government, including his last position as the State Chief Enterprise Architect and Deputy CIO. In this role, he was responsible for crafting the blueprint for the state’s first hybrid cloud strategy and chaired the statewide Chief Information Officers (CIO) council. Dr. Rials government technology leadership has been recognized nationally, including his election as Vice-President of the National Association of State Technology Directors (NASTD) southern region in 2015, and later as president in 2016. In 2017, he was honored with an award as one of the top 50 IT government professionals in the nation by States Scoop magazine. In addition to his academic work, Dr. Rials serves as the principal consultant and Chief Architect for a managed technology service company specializing in delivering cloud solutions to small businesses. He also serves on various national and local technology-focused boards.