#United States #Washington, D.C. #Oracle Cloud #USDA STRATUS #Federal Efficiency

USDA Partners with Oracle Cloud for STRATUS Initiative

In a significant move towards modernization, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has selected Oracle Cloud as an integral part of its STRATUS program, designed to enhance operational efficiency across federal agencies. Managed through the USDA’s Digital Infrastructure Services Center (DISC), this coordination streamlines access to reliable cloud solutions and technical support services.

The STRATUS program allows federal agencies to utilize Oracle's high-performance cloud infrastructure, which encompasses a range of services including database management, computing power, storage options, artificial intelligence capabilities, and a suite of applications aimed at transforming agency operations. As stated by Dave Peters, USDA's Associate Chief Information Officer (ACIO), the initiative is set to deliver a series of services, from cloud brokering to managed solutions, ultimately leading to modernized agency operations.

Existing USDA procedures already utilize various Oracle Cloud solutions, like Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) and Oracle Exadata, along with finance and HR applications. This new strategy promises to not only streamline these operations but also bolster overall efficiency, particularly for crucial elements like NFC Insight, EmpowHR, and APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine tasks.

Cost Efficiency and Scalability

One of the program’s standout features is the potential for substantial cost reductions. Agencies implementing OCI services can anticipate savings of approximately 50% on computing costs, 70% on storage, and an impressive 80% on networking compared to competing cloud providers. Such savings are crucial for federal budgets, particularly at a time when every dollar counts.

“USDA STRATUS will empower federal agencies to swiftly pivot towards multicloud solutions, enhancing operational proficiency,” remarked Kim Lynch, Executive Vice President of Government, Defense, and Intelligence at Oracle. This collaboration aims to accelerate cloud migration for various civilian and defense agencies, leveraging Oracle’s advanced applications and superior artificial intelligence capabilities.

The STRATUS program reinforces a trend towards integrating innovative technologies within federal operations, aiming to create a sophisticated and interconnected government. By utilizing advanced cloud infrastructure, federal agencies stand to benefit from enhanced performance, improved security, and a more streamlined operational workflow.

About the USDA and Oracle

The USDA plays a pivotal role in promoting agricultural productivity and sustainable practices while ensuring economic opportunities for rural communities. Additionally, it focuses on preserving natural resources and enhancing public welfare through conservation efforts. For more insights into their programs, visit USDA’s official website.

On the other hand, Oracle is renowned for its comprehensive cloud-based solutions that integrate security and autonomous infrastructure. To learn more about Oracle, visit Oracle’s website.

With these strategic partnerships and initiatives in place, the USDA and Oracle are poised to redefine operational efficiency within government agencies, setting a precedent for future collaborations in the evolving digital landscape.