News from DAS

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News from DAS  |  February 2020

Director's message

Katy Coba, 2020

Something big is coming — the 2020 Census

This month legislative session is in full swing, which is keeping DAS — and many other state agencies — very busy. But, we are also looking ahead at something very important that is coming to all Oregonians — and to all U.S. households — the 2020 Census.

Once every 10 years, the U.S. Constitution requires a full count of the population to reapportion seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. That exercise — the U.S. Census — begins in a matter of weeks (mid-March 2020). Oregon is working hard to ensure the state’s residents are fully counted. Census results drive decisions that will affect economic investments in our state and our representation in Congress until 2031. In the last census, Oregon was just shy of gaining one seat in Congress — we have to get it right this time! And, we estimate that, for every 100 households missed, the state would lose up to $8 million over the decade, which would affect our ability to adequately support children, veterans, senior citizens and low-income families.

For the first time, the primary method of response to the census will be electronic. Beginning in mid-March 2020, the U.S. Census Bureau will send each household a postcard inviting residents to go online (or call) and provide information about the number of people residing at that address. By federal law, the information provided is confidential. The Census Bureau uses the highest level of data security to safeguard the information it receives. In fact, census forms can be used ONLY to produce statistical information about the population, and penalties for violations are severe. For more information, refer to the Factsheet on Census and Confidentiality.

Oregon 2020 Census logo

We need your help to spread the word that the process is quick, easy and safe and to help people overcome internet access or digital literacy issues. More information about Oregon’s participation in the 2020 Census is available at https://oregon2020census.gov/.

-Katy Coba, DAS Director and State COO

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Agencies honored for sustainable practices

DAS recently recognized 27 state agencies that have achieved certification through Marion County’s EarthWISE program. Representatives from DAS, the Governor’s Office and Marion County delivered words of appreciation at a January event honoring state agencies for their commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

EarthWISE logo

EarthWISE-certified state agencies have employed practices to reduce waste, boost recycling, save energy and water, and make more sustainable decisions. These agencies play an important role in helping DAS achieve its goal of bringing 100% of DAS-owned buildings to a sustainability certification standard by 2022.

DAS Director Katy Coba shared some of the savings achieved through EarthWISE certification, including $30,297 per year through the use of LED exit signs and 160,000 gallons of water and 380 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions through the use of recycled content paper. Coba thanked agencies for their efforts in becoming certified, saying, “This makes me so proud because it shows a true commitment to sustainability and the genuine desire to be responsible stewards of our community and our environment.”

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Business Analyst Networking Group to launch

State employees who serve as business analysts are invited to join an emerging community of like-minded professionals. Kicking off April 21, the Business Analyst Networking Group (BANG) will meet every other month for networking and presentations on business analysis topics.

Business analysis as a body of knowledge and necessary discipline is central to developing and maturing state government work, and is essential to successfully implementing projects. Developing a networking group for BAs will enable practitioners and those interested in this work to collaborate on standards, practices, templates, and shared development of the BA disciplines, and will strengthen alliances and collaboration between organizations. The leadership of Enterprise Information Services supports this initiative and hopes it will serve state agencies as a resource for developing BA staff and practices.

Please join DAS in sharing this news in your organization. Sign up here to receive more information.

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Hiring interns this summer? Add them to Workday!

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Ever wonder how well your internship program is doing in bringing in talent? Enter all  interns into Workday, paid and unpaid, and in time you will be able to see who becomes an employee — a key measure in determining the strength of your internship program.

Below is a timeline for planning your agency’s summer internships. More resources are included in this internship toolkit

  • February: Start by identifying your agency internship opportunities.
  • March – April: Open recruitments, speak to college career services, and attend career fairs to advertise. Interview and place interns for meaningful summer work.
  • May – September: Onboard and support your interns. Encourage them to attend summer lunch-and-learns (to be announced) for interns to network and learn more about state government. And don’t forget to talk to them about the opportunities and benefits of public service.

Send questions to the Chief Human Resources Office.

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Succession planning:

Connecting today’s workforce with tomorrow’s demands

State government’s workforce touches the lives of all Oregonians and those who visit our beautiful state. Over 500 different classifications encompass our workforce and provide continuity for the state’s most crucial services. A viable succession plan, prepared and maintained by each agency, is crucial to maintaining a skilled workforce. 

To assist state agencies with succession management, the DAS Chief Human Resources Office has developed a model succession plan that includes best practices, tools and resources. The CHRO is also available to help agencies. We welcome the opportunity to talk with agency executive teams about how to improve succession planning. Contact us to schedule a visit.

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