CalVet Mobile App is National Awards Finalist

[boardman]

CalVet Mobile App is National Awards Finalist

The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) learned today that its mobile app is among 30 finalists across all categories being considered by the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) for the 2012 Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Information Technology award. The app is also one of three awards finalists in the Digital Government-to-Citizen category.

The CalVet mobile app, available for both Apple and Android devices, gives users 24/7 access to information about employment, education, housing, health and other benefits and services available to California veterans. The app provides details of specific veteran benefits, including eligibility, providers, hours of operation, and contact information. Using GPS technology, the app also provides maps and driving directions to nearby County Veterans Service Offices, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health facilities and clinics, and organizations that offer services to veterans. The Android app can be downloaded for free from Google Play and the Apple app can be downloaded for free from the Apple Store.

NASCIO’s prestigious Recognition Awards are given annually to states that have implemented exceptional programs which have made an important contribution to the operation of state government. This year, NASCIO received over 120 nominations. According to NASCIO, the 2012 State Recognition Award nominations demonstrate that states strive to support the public policy goals of state leaders, provide cost-effective service to citizens, and make available solutions that are transferable to other agencies or units of government.

“To put this in sports terminology, being selected as a finalist by NASCIO is like going to the Super Bowl – it’s really the highest recognition we can receive at a national level,” said Mark Lennon, CalVet Deputy Secretary for Administration.

During NASCIO’s Annual Conference in San Diego, the organization will highlight outstanding state initiatives, including the CalVet mobile app, during a Best Practices Breakfast on Tuesday, October 23, 2012.