Avero GovTech Insights

40 Episodes
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By: Abhijit Verekar

Welcome to Avero GovTech Insights, your go-to podcast for the latest trends, insights, and innovations in government technology. Each episode brings you expert analysis and discussions on a wide range of topics, from data analytics to digital transformation and public sector ERP systems.  Join us as we explore the technologies shaping the future of public services and discover how you can leverage them to drive efficiency, transparency, and better outcomes for your community.

Digital Transformation: Realistic Timelines & Success
Last Monday at 10:00 AM

Every agency wants to modernize faster—but speed isn’t the real measure of success.

In this episode of the GovTech Podcast, Megan Seaton and Robert Kornovich unpack what truly determines a successful transformation timeline. They explain why readiness, change management, and vendor accountability often matter more than the technology itself.

This episode covers:

Why compressed timelines create riskHow to align readiness, staffing, and vendor strategyThe role of accountability in protecting public investmentWhat “success” actually means after go-live

Modernization isn’t just about getting there—it’s about staying...


AI in Housing: Readiness, Risks, and Real Solutions
03/09/2026

AI is no longer optional—it’s already in your organization, whether you’ve planned for it or not.

In this episode of the GovTech Podcast, Megan Seaton and Robert Kornovich unpack how housing authorities can adopt AI safely and strategically. From data privacy and bias to employee training and ethical use, they outline what readiness really looks like—and why ignoring AI is a bigger risk than using it.

This episode covers:

How to assess your organization’s AI readinessProtecting personal data and managing riskAvoiding bias in automation...


AI in Housing: How to Use It & Not Be Scared
03/02/2026

AI is here—and it’s already reshaping how housing authorities operate.

In this GovTech Podcast, Megan Seaton and Robert Kornovich break down how agencies can adopt AI safely, ethically, and strategically. From data security and privacy concerns to managing employee fears, they share how housing leaders can balance innovation with responsibility.

This episode covers:

How to talk about AI without fearTraining staff to use AI the right wayAvoiding data privacy pitfallsWhy change management matters more than ever

#GovTech #AIinGovernment #PublicSectorLeadership #DigitalTransformation #AffordableHousing

Register for our FREE GovTech in Digi...


ERP Sunset Dates: Planning Your Implementation Strategy
02/23/2026

What happens when your ERP system hits its “sunset date”? Vendors often frame it as a crisis—but agencies have more options than they realize.

In this GovTech Podcast, Megan Seaton and Robert Kornovich explain how to navigate looming sunset deadlines, avoid vendor scare tactics, and plan a timeline that makes sense for your budget, staff, and long-term goals.

Because modernization isn’t just about meeting deadlines—it’s about making the right decisions at the right time.

#GovTech #ERPModernization #DigitalTransformation #PublicSectorLeadership

Register for our FREE GovTech in Digital Transformation Insight Workshop:


ERP Modernization: Why You Need It & How to Succeed
02/16/2026

What happens when governments think modernization is “done”? They fall behind.

In this episode of the GovTech Podcast, Megan Seaton and Robert Kornovich explain why ERP modernization is a constant drumbeat, not a one-time project. From the dangers of complacency to the critical role of independent advisors, they unpack how agencies can avoid failure and set themselves up for long-term success.

Because staying modern isn’t just about technology—it’s about leadership, accountability, and resilience.

#GovTech #DigitalTransformation #ERPModernization #PublicSectorLeadership

Register for our FREE GovTech in Digital Transformation Insight Workshop:<...


Modern Policing: Community Engagement & Tech Explained
02/09/2026

Building safer communities requires more than new tools—it takes trust, accountability, and engagement.

In this GovTech Podcast, Abhijit Verekar sits down with Knoxville Police Chief Paul Noel to explore how technology and culture intersect in modern policing. From AI auditing bodycam footage to online surveys and face-to-face community engagement, Chief Noel shares what it takes to reach the 90% of citizens who don’t typically show up to public meetings.

This episode unpacks how tech and transparency can work together to strengthen trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

#GovTech #PublicSafety #Comm...


Police Tech: How Drones & AI Are Changing Law Enforcement
02/02/2026

From virtual training simulators to AI-powered analytics and drone response programs, technology is reshaping modern law enforcement.

In this GovTech Podcast, Abhijit Verekar sits down with Knoxville Police Chief Paul Noel to explore how innovation is driving safer communities, smarter policing, and stronger public trust.

This episode dives into:

AI that helps officers process critical information in secondsDrone pilots supporting first responders in real timeThe balance between rapid change and culture adoption

#GovTech #PublicSafety #AIinGovernment #DigitalTransformation #PolicingInnovation

Register for our FREE GovTech in Digital Transformation Insight Workshop:
➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.co...


AI in Education: Revolutionizing Student Success
01/26/2026

AI is changing how schools use student data—moving from static records to actionable insights that guide success.

In this episode of the GovTech podcast, Abhijit Verekar and Dustin Bainbridge—founder of Horizon Education and Unified Track and a leading voice in EdTech—explore how AI can:

Generate progress reports that simulate guidance and counselingHelp counselors manage overwhelming caseloads of 500+ studentsIdentify risk factors like absenteeism and GPA declines before it’s too lateSupport parents with clearer, more constructive conversations about student progress

AI won’t replace educators or counselors—but it can give them the tools to bet...


AI in Education: Predicting Student Success and Preventing Dropouts
01/19/2026

AI is reshaping education—not by replacing teachers or counselors, but by giving them tools to act sooner.

In this episode of the GovTech podcast, Abhijit Verekar and Dustin Bainbridge, EdTech innovator and founder of Horizon Education and Unified Track, explore how predictive analytics can help schools:

Flag at-risk students earlierMap course pathways to college and career goalsSupport overburdened counselors with 500:1 caseloadsUse automation to free up time for meaningful student engagement

The future of education technology isn’t about replacing people—it’s about empowering them with insight.

#GovTech #AIinEducation #StudentSuccess #PredictiveAnalytics #K12Tech

...


Government ERP: Atlanta’s Success vs. San Francisco’s $55M Disaster
01/12/2026

Not all government ERP projects end the same way.

Atlanta modernized successfully—engaging stakeholders, cleaning up data, and standardizing processes before going live. The results: smoother payroll, reduced costs, and sustainable upgrades.

San Francisco, on the other hand, spent $55 million on a payroll system that left teachers unpaid and trust eroded. The difference came down to leadership discipline, governance, and following proven best practices.

In this episode of the GovTech podcast, we break down why Atlanta succeeded and San Francisco failed—and what every government leader can learn from both.

#GovTech #Gove...


Why Government Tech Projects Fail—and How to Prevent It
01/05/2026

Government technology projects don’t fail because of bad software—they fail because of poor planning, lack of governance, and unrealistic expectations.

This episode unpacks the common pitfalls that derail ERP and modernization efforts:

Scope creep and runaway customizationsThe burden of technical debtWeak governance and leadership gapsThe monolithic vs. composable ERP debateOutdated approaches to reporting and requirements

With the right strategy, these challenges are avoidable. Listen in to learn how agencies can plan smarter, reduce risk, and deliver projects that actually succeed.

#GovTech #ERPModernization #GovernmentLeadership #DigitalGov

Register for our FREE GovTech in D...


RFPs and AI: Modernizing Software Procurement in Government
12/29/2025

Traditional RFP processes—long timelines, outdated requirements, and rigid training mandates—are no longer serving today’s government agencies.

This episode explores how artificial intelligence, outcomes-based requirements, and pilot-first approaches are reshaping procurement. From smarter reporting to modern training models, agencies now have opportunities to streamline procurement and improve results without adding risk.

If your agency is planning a system modernization, this conversation will help you rethink what to ask for—and how to avoid mistakes that slow progress.

#GovTech #GovernmentModernization #ERPProcurement #DigitalGov

Register for our FREE GovTech in Digital Transformation Insight...


Software Contracts: How to Negotiate With Confidence and Clarity
12/22/2025

Once you sign a software contract, your leverage is gone.

In this GovTech episode, Megan and Billie break down what public-sector teams must understand before finalizing a software agreement—especially when implementation timelines, payment terms, and post-go-live support are on the line.

You’ll learn:

Why you should define “go-live” and every major term before you signWhat a milestone-based payment plan looks like in practiceWhy multiple vendors under one umbrella contract can get complicated—fastWhat post–go-live support should include (and why it belongs in your contract)Who should be at the table—and wh...


ERP Contract Negotiation: Protect Your Project Before You Sign
12/15/2025

An ERP contract isn’t just paperwork—it’s your leverage, timeline, and future wrapped into one document.

In this GovTech episode, Megan sits down with Avero Project Manager Billie to unpack everything public-sector leaders need to consider before signing an ERP implementation contract. From vendor pressure to hidden risks, they share firsthand insights on what makes or breaks a successful negotiation.

You’ll learn:

Why your leverage disappears the moment you signHow Phase 0 and a solid needs assessment protect your positionWhat “go-live” actually means—and how to define it up frontWhat to do when ven...


AI in Government: Transparency, Compliance & the Human Element
12/08/2025

AI isn’t just another tool—it’s a turning point in how governments operate, share data, and serve the public.

In this GovTech episode, the Avero team explores the real-world role of AI in public-sector operations—from modernizing compliance to enabling data transparency and navigating vendor overload.

Inside the conversation:

What the Financial Data Transparency Act means for local governmentsWhere AI can reduce workload—but still needs human oversightWhy “machine-readable” matters more than everHow to manage AI responsibly while planning long-term tech strategyThe danger of demo-driven decisions and how to evaluate real fitWhy hu...


AI in Government Consulting: Strategy Needs a Human Touch
12/01/2025

AI can speed up workflows—but it can’t replace wisdom.

In this episode, the Avero team explores the evolving relationship between AI and government consulting. From federal funding realities to vendor evaluation and project planning, one theme is clear: tech without strategy isn’t progress—it’s chaos.

You’ll learn:

Why soft skills and human relationships still drive successful outcomesWhere AI can enhance (but not replace) public-sector consultingHow to stay on the forefront of new technology—without getting lost in itWhy ERP clients buy trust, expertise, and connection—not just deliverablesHow...


Choosing the Right ERP: Best-of-Breed vs. All-in-One
11/24/2025

Choosing an ERP system isn't just a technical decision—it's a strategic one.

In this episode, the GovTech team dives into the real conversations public-sector leaders should be having before selecting a system. From vendor demos to executive sponsorship and best-of-breed models, we explore how to approach ERP decisions with clarity and balance.

Topics include:

What process mapping reveals about inefficiencies agencies overlookHow stakeholder voices shape better scoping and system fitWhy vendor agnosticism must be real—not just a marketing taglineWhen best-of-breed is a smart option—and when it’s notHow to avoid pi...


Crafting Better RFPs: What Public Agencies Must Get Right
11/17/2025

A weak RFP leads to poor proposals, mismatched vendors, and long-term project risk.

This episode breaks down what public-sector leaders must know before releasing an RFP—especially for ERP or modernization efforts that impact multiple departments and millions of dollars.

What’s covered:

Why muddy scopes lead to misaligned vendor responsesHow to structure “Phase 0” discovery before drafting requirementsThe truth about 4,000-line RTMs (and what actually matters)What questions to ask your consultant before planning scopeHow documentation builds trust, transparency, and legal resilience

If you're building or reviewing an RFP for a major te...


The Hidden Costs of ERP Projects: What Leaders Overlook
11/10/2025

ERP budgets don’t fail because of the software. They fail because of what leaders didn’t plan for.

In this episode of GovTech, Megan and Robert Karnovitch unpack the invisible costs that quietly derail ERP initiatives—from staffing blind spots to legal slowdowns and executive turnover.

This conversation covers:

Why backfilling internal staff time is one of the most overlooked costsHow process mapping and scope inflation can spike project budgetsWhen legal and procurement departments become timeline risksThe hidden cost of leadership change mid-projectWhy change management isn’t optional—it’s budget critical

I...


AI in Project Scoping: Smart Tool or Shortcut Risk?
11/03/2025

AI is changing how governments scope projects—but not always for the better.

In this episode of Untangled, Megan and Robert Karnovitch discuss the role of AI in ERP and EAM project scoping. Spoiler: it’s not about cutting corners—it’s about clarity, context, and smart delegation.

Inside the episode:

Why every vendor quote should come with math, not just a monthly feeHow AI can accelerate timelines without replacing real-world logicWhen AI creates false confidence for users who don’t understand the contextWhy human oversight and scoping discipline still matter more than everW...


EAM Implementation, Clean Data & Predictive Maintenance: What It Really Takes
10/27/2025

EAM systems don’t fail because of bad software—they fail because of bad data and poor planning.

In this episode of Untangled, the team at Avero Advisors breaks down what it really takes to implement modern Enterprise Asset Management systems in local government.

You’ll learn:

Why clean, structured data is more important than selecting the “perfect” platformWhat predictive maintenance looks like in practice—and why it’s a safety issue, not just efficiencyHow GIS and mobile access transform EAM from a tracking tool to a field operat...


GIS, Mobile Access & Asset Insights: What Makes Modern EAM Actually Work
10/20/2025

Your asset data isn’t just information—it’s infrastructure.

In this episode of Untangled, Avero Advisors unpacks what makes Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) successful in local government.

From legacy microservices to mobile fieldwork tools, we discuss:

How to integrate GIS systems into modern EAM platformsWhy outdated asset hierarchies destroy adoption and workflowsWhat mobile access really looks like in the fieldWhen to deal with proprietary systems and data silosHow modern tools like Cityworks interface with ERP platforms like SAP or Tyler

Whether you're tracking culverts or capital planning for roads, this episod...


AI’s Future: Microsoft, Space Force & the Public Sector’s Big Opportunity
10/13/2025

In this episode of Avero GovTech Insights, AV reconnects with Microsoft’s Muddu Sudhakar to explore the evolving intersection of AI, energy, space infrastructure, and local government innovation.

From AI-powered space data centers to the policy backbone behind responsible adoption, this conversation dives into where the tech is headed—and what civic leaders must do now to stay ahead.

Learn why AI wrappers aren’t enough, what the Space Force is doing to drive innovation, and how smaller cities can prepare for the infrastructure demands of tomorrow.

Whether you're in IT, strategy, or public...


AI Dominance & the Future of GovTech: What Leaders Need to Know
10/06/2025

In this episode of Avero GovTech Insights, we explore what true AI leadership looks like in a rapidly changing landscape.

AV sits down with tech strategist and Microsoft leader Muddu Sudhakar to discuss the accelerating pace of AI innovation, what “model as a service” really means, and how government leaders can avoid chasing trends and start planning for long-term success.

From the White House AI action plan to economic development opportunities like Project Stargate, this episode connects global tech shifts to local public-sector realities.

We also dig into workforce trends, rethinking tech education, and...


AI in Government: Maturity, Risk & the Road Ahead
09/29/2025

Governments across the globe are racing to adopt AI—but are they truly ready? In this episode of the GovTech Podcast, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar (AV) unpacks the critical factors agencies must consider before implementing AI tools. From defining smart city use cases to navigating vendor risks and federal policy, this conversation goes beyond buzzwords to give you a roadmap for safe, strategic AI integration in the public sector.

You’ll hear:

Why an AI maturity model matters before you buy another toolReal-world case studies from Raleigh, San Jose, and DenverWhat’s coming in federal AI policy...


AI Policy & Smart Cities: What Government Leaders Need to Know
09/22/2025

In this GovTech Pod episode, Abhijit Verekar breaks down the latest federal policy updates on AI and what they mean for government agencies. From national security to smart cities, he explores how federal investments, public-private partnerships, and evolving regulations are shaping the AI landscape for public sector innovation.

AV also highlights real-world examples—from Raleigh’s AI-powered traffic lights to San Jose’s smarter 311 systems—and explains how local governments can harness automation while protecting data, avoiding compliance pitfalls, and planning strategically.

Whether you're a CIO, city manager, or digital transformation leader, this episode will help you...


The Timeline Myth: What Really Delays Public Sector Tech Projects
09/15/2025

Everyone wants to move faster—but at what cost? In this episode, Robert Kornovich and Megan Seaton of Avero Advisors break down the real reasons digital transformation projects get delayed. From underestimating change management to overlooking vendor negotiation details, they share unfiltered insights from years of working in the trenches with local governments.

If you’re planning ERP modernization or leading any government tech project, this is a must-listen conversation on building timelines that reflect reality—not wishful thinking.

Register for our FREE GovTech in Digital Transformation Insight Workshop:
➡ https://conference.averoadvisors.com/averoinsights


Outrunning Extinction: Why ERP Success Depends on Your Strategy, Not Just Software
09/08/2025

In this episode of the GovTech Podcast, Avero’s Robert Kornovich joins the conversation to unpack one of the biggest pitfalls in government modernization: treating ERP projects like simple tech upgrades. Spoiler: they’re not.

From misunderstood timelines to change management overload, we explore why ERP transformations fail—and what agencies can do to ensure long-term success. Learn how to navigate vendor contracts, protect your data, and define clear goals that vendors can’t rewrite.

If you're facing pressure to modernize but don’t want to fall into the dinosaur trap of outdated thinking, this episode is...


Modernizing Government with AI: Transparency, Strategy & the Human Factor
09/01/2025

In this episode of GovTech, the Avero team dives into the fast-evolving world of artificial intelligence and what it means for local government leaders. From vendor demos to compliance mandates like the Financial Data Transparency Act, we break down what’s real, what’s risky, and what’s next.

Learn how to approach AI with clarity, build an adaptable modernization strategy, and keep people at the center of every technology decision.

Because good government isn’t just about faster tools—it’s about smarter leadership.

Register for our FREE GovTech in Digital Transformation Insight Work...


Tech Evolved, People First: Why AI Won’t Replace Great Consulting
08/25/2025

In this episode of GovTech Insights, the Avero team dives deep into the future of public sector consulting. As AI tools grow more powerful, government leaders are asking: what role do consultants play now?

The answer? More than ever.

From ERP projects to funding decisions, real success comes from strategic partnerships, not just tech implementation. We discuss why soft skills—empathy, communication, leadership—are the defining edge in a world increasingly run by algorithms. And how great consultants aren’t just note-takers—they’re problem-solvers, strategists, and trusted voices in the room.

This is a must...


ERP Implementation Nightmares: Real Confessions & Hard Lessons
08/18/2025

From missed reports to misaligned expectations—ERP implementation can go off the rails fast. In this episode of the GovTech Pod, Avero Advisors dives into real confessions from public-sector leaders who’ve lived through the chaos.

We talk about what actually causes ERP projects to become nightmares, and more importantly—how to avoid them. Expect candid stories, practical remedies, and hard-won wisdom on everything from reporting failures and staffing surprises to PMO structure and best-of-breed system myths.

💡 If you’re gearing up for a modernization project or in the thick of one, this episode is your wake-u...


ERP Confessions: Lessons from the Booth at GFOA 2025
08/11/2025

What happens when public finance professionals get honest about their ERP experiences? At GFOA 2025, the Avero Advisors team set up a "confessional wall" at their booth—and the stories poured in.

In this episode, AV, Megan, Robert, and David break down the most common ERP regrets and mistakes they heard firsthand. From 99-page RFPs that got zero bidders to letting vendors define go-live dates, we unpack what went wrong—and what to do differently next time.

Expect real-world lessons on:

RFP strategy that actually gets responsesWhy vendor selection should go beyond priceThe true cost of l...


AI in Local Government: How to Serve the Public Better
08/04/2025

What if AI wasn’t about replacing people—but helping governments finally do the things they’ve always wanted to do, but never had the capacity for?

In this episode of GovTech Pod, we sit down with a PhD in machine ethics turned civic tech founder to explore what AI really means for public service. From system-level ethics to smart infrastructure and transparent marketplaces for public interest AI, this is a fresh, grounded look at how local governments can use AI to empower—not override—their missions.

We unpack:

Why "machine ethics" isn't the right fram...


Beyond Efficiency: Rethinking Government’s Role in the Age of AI
07/28/2025

In this thought-provoking episode of the GovTech Pod, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar explores a question we don’t ask often enough: What is government really for—and how should AI change the answer?

From traffic systems and housing to citizen services and workforce planning, AV unpacks what it means to lead with purpose in a moment of rapid technological change. It's not just about automation or saving time—it's about building systems rooted in abundance, equity, and human need.

You’ll hear:
 – Why “efficiency” shouldn’t be government’s North Star
 – How AI might help address sca...


ERP Isn’t Just Tech—It’s People, Process, and Planning
07/21/2025

ERP modernization in the public sector isn’t just about software—it’s a full-scale transformation that touches every part of your organization. In this GovTech Pod episode, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar (AV) breaks down the real-world lessons agencies can learn from large-scale projects like the UK’s £144M Workday implementation.

From data governance and vendor coordination to G-Cloud procurement models and AI readiness, AV unpacks what government leaders need to plan for—before, during, and after a system rollout.

Whether you’re still managing workflows in Excel or gearing up for your next big tech purchase...


What the UK’s £144M ERP Transformation Can Teach U.S. Government Leaders
07/14/2025

What happens when one of the world’s largest ERP transformations is put under a public sector microscope?

In this GovTech Pod episode, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar unpacks the United Kingdom’s £144M Workday initiative—an ambitious modernization effort driven by the Cabinet Office, Workday, and Cognizant—and what lessons it holds for U.S. state and local agencies.

From the importance of vendor alignment to the overlooked value of legacy integration and clear success criteria, AV breaks down what’s working, what’s risky, and why this project is far more than a software rollout.

<...


Flight Plan for ERP: What Aviation Teaches Us About Go-Live Success
07/07/2025

What do ERP implementations and aviation have in common? More than you might think.

In this episode of GovTech Insights, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar is joined by ERP consultant (and licensed pilot) Isaac West to unpack how lessons from the cockpit apply directly to public sector digital transformation.

From pre-flight planning to checklist discipline and mid-air course corrections, AV and Isaac draw clear parallels between flying and managing complex ERP projects—with insights that could save your agency time, money, and frustration.

✈️ What we cover:

Why communication breakdowns derail ERP successThe role of che...


ERP Implementation: Negotiating Contracts & Avoiding Project Failures
06/30/2025

Too many government tech projects go sideways because agencies forget one essential truth: you’re allowed to push back. In this episode, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar (AV) gets real about what it takes to lead a successful ERP or digital transformation—before, during, and after vendor selection.

He tackles:

Why it’s not “fighting” to ask tough questions—it's protecting your organizationThe danger of letting vendors define your success criteriaWhat “being blacklisted” really means—and why you shouldn’t fear itHow CHROs, CIOs, and CFOs can align priorities instead of working in silosWhy waiting until go-live to define “success”...


ERP Implementation: CFO, HR Roles and Avoiding Project Pitfalls
06/23/2025

ERP projects in government are rarely just about systems—they’re about people. In this episode, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar breaks down the unseen challenges that derail transformations, from vague reporting goals to unclear ownership and internal overload.

You’ll hear real talk on:

Why vague RFPs lead to failed reportingWhen to build an internal ERP team (and when not to)The myth of “bolt-ons” and modern system integrationWho should actually lead change managementWhy CHROs get steamrolled—and how to stop it

Whether you're in finance, IT, or HR, this episode gives you the straight truth on wha...


Vendor Relationships: Building Trust and Long-Term Value
06/16/2025

🎙️ Featuring: Robert Kornovich & Megan Seaton | Avero Advisors

Too often, government agencies are handed a polished pitch—but what they need is a real partner.

In this candid conversation, Avero VP of Client Success Robert Kornovich reflects on his journey from local government to consultant, shares the importance of human connection in vendor relationships, and explains why trust, communication, and being real matter far more than buzzwords or slide decks.

This one’s for the public-sector leaders who are tired of transactional vendors and ready for something more collaborative.

💡 Key takeaway: Clients don’t want a...