Growing A Data Company With Federal Business

Rory Patterson is Chairman of Databricks Federal. Databricks is a cloud-based platform that helps businesses build, scale, and manage data and artificial intelligence. The session highlights how Databricks is expanding beyond its commercial uses to accelerate its investments in the government sector.

In an interview with Steve Bowsher, Patterson highlights how Databricks is expanding beyond its commercial uses to accelerate its investments in the government sector. They discuss Databricks' evolution from an Apache Spark-based platform into a comprehensive data intelligence solution and its expanding role in federal agencies. Patterson shares insights on how Databricks is helping the government optimize data-driven decision-making, modernize outdated infrastructure, and accelerate artificial intelligence adoption. The discussion also covers the challenges of integrating commercial technology into government systems, the transition from on-prem to SaaS, and the future of AI-driven efficiency in the public sector.

Ernestine Fu Mak also provides special remarks. 

Key Takeaways

• Data Transformation in Government

  Databricks is playing a critical role in helping federal agencies break down data silos, streamline decision-making, and leverage AI for improved efficiency.

• Shift from On-Prem to Cloud

  Databricks transitioned its federal customers from an outdated on-premises model to a secure cloud-based SaaS offering, overcoming compliance and adoption challenges.

• AI and Automation Potential

  Government agencies are increasingly leveraging AI and machine learning to optimize logistics, reduce redundancy, and enhance operational efficiency.

• Challenges of Government Tech Adoption

  Legacy systems and slow procurement processes remain major hurdles for innovation, but forward-thinking strategies can accelerate modernization.

• The Future of AI in the Public Sector

  With greater access to cloud-based AI models, agencies can improve data analysis, policy decision-making, and national security efforts at an unprecedented scale.