DAS Update

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Ohio Department of Administrative Services

The latest news from the Ohio Department of Administrative Services

June 21, 2021

OGRIP among diverse DAS services

DAS is known as a “behind-the-scenes agency” that delivers the backbone of services that keep State government operating. The work of DAS is diverse, from real estate and fleet management to enterprise human resources and information technology services. Among the more than 800 DAS employees are experts in geographic information systems (GIS).

The Ohio Geographically Referenced Information Program, or OGRIP for short, is the authorized GIS coordinating entity for the State of Ohio and coordinates the development and use of digital spatial data in the state. 

OGRIP

“Although OGRIP is a relatively small office, we do important work to create digital geographic data valuable to state and local governments and Ohio citizens,” said David Blackstone, executive director of the OGRIP office. “I am especially proud on how our staff was able to step up and provide GIS and mapping services to other agencies in support of efforts to battle the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The work of the office was essential to sharing data pertaining to COVID-19. The office created a portal with geo-spatial datasets and resources related to the pandemic that is a one-stop source for use by governmental agencies and the general public.

The office hosts an annual conference that is the largest gathering of federal, state, local, and private industry GIS professionals, developers, and partners in Ohio. More details on the September conference will be available soon at OGRIP.oit.ohio.gov.

Ohio eProcurement featured in national podcast

Kelly Sanders

Ohio’s new eProcurement solution, called Ohio | Buys, was featured in a recent National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) podcast. Chief of Procurement Services Kelly Sanders and eProcurement Manager Andrew Cochran discussed the journey that began in 2016 to implement the solution, which leverages technology to increase efficiency, opportunities, and participation with businesses in Ohio.

Sanders leads the Office of Procurement Services within DAS, which assists State agencies and political subdivisions with the procurement of supplies and services.

Listen to the podcast at pulse.naspo.org.

Two more "You're Certified, Now What" workshops

YCNW

There’s still time to catch two more workshops covering how to do business with the State of Ohio after receiving certification in one of several programs that help ensure equal opportunity access to and fair treatment in government contracting.

If you’re interested in establishing a joint venture or teaming opportunity, join tomorrow’s webinar at 11 a.m.

The final webinar on June 29 at 11 a.m. will feature businesses certified in the Minority Business Enterprise and Encouraging Diversity, Growth and Equity programs, and an overview of opportunities with the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission.

To join a workshop, follow this Teams link or call 1-614-721-2972, and enter conference ID 512 886 909#.

Flory now state CIO

Katrina Flory

In the last edition of DAS Update, we reported that Katrina Flory had assumed the position of interim state CIO following the departure of Ervan Rodgers.

We’re pleased to announce that Katrina has accepted the permanent position of state chief information officer. As state CIO, she will also serve as one of our two DAS assistant directors.

Congratulations, Katrina!

Hold a professional license? Renew today!

eLicense

Do you hold a professional license in Ohio or know someone who does? After several extensions due to the COVID19 pandemic, the State of Ohio set July 1, 2021, as the new deadline to renew many professional licenses.

All those who hold a professional license with a July 1 renewal deadline are encouraged to renew now to avoid possible delays that could be caused by a high volume of renewals in late June.

Visit elicense.ohio.gov to renew. If you have questions, visit the FAQ page, contact eLicense Ohio at (855) 405-5514 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or contact the appropriate licensing board.