6 tech trends poised to reshape government operations

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As technology becomes increasingly embedded in public sector operations and the delivery of services, emerging tools can help drive meaningful change across government agencies.

“Florida’s public sector is facing a pivotal moment — where emerging technologies like spatial computing, agentic AI and post-quantum cryptography are no longer distant concepts, but immediate opportunities to innovate,” said David Friedman, principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP.

“Florida’s leaders have an opportunity to move from exploration to execution; to modernize outdated IT systems, enhance public services and build a strong digital foundation for the future.”

In its recent 2025 Gov Tech Trends report, Deloitte offers a government-specific perspective on the top six emerging technology trends most likely to reshape operations over the next 18 to 24 months:

— Spatial computing takes center stage: Spatial computing remains a key technology enabling people to interact with digital information in physical or 3D spaces. Think of maps coming to life, simulations of city planning, or virtual environments for training. For government agencies, it opens new ways to visualize data, plan infrastructure projects, respond to emergencies, and engage the public. By turning complex information into immersive, real-world experiences, spatial computing can help agencies make even better decisions and deliver services even more effectively.

— What’s next for AI? Governments are moving beyond generalized AI, adopting smaller, more specialized models to automate tasks, reduce administrative burdens, and better align tools to generate the desired outcomes. Given these advancements, government leaders may want to consider where their employees and constituents could benefit most from increased use of Generative AI, balancing cost implications with response quality, and speed against risk.

— Hardware is eating the world: As AI adoption expands, there is a greater need for specialized hardware and reimagined cybersecurity measures. New AI models demand more advanced computing power, compelling governments to reassess their infrastructure to accommodate these innovations — it must be both secure and capable of handling the increasing complexity of AI applications to maintain resilience and safeguard sensitive data.

— IT, amplified: New AI trends offer government IT leaders a chance to lead from the front. Generative AI can write code, test software, and enhance the skills of tech workers. Leaders should view this as an opportunity to transform IT, by setting a vision, promoting a tech-savvy culture, and addressing AI’s opportunities and risks. As traditional AI and Generative AI tools evolve, tech delivery may shift from being human-led to more human-assisted, leading to a new form of lean IT.

— The new math: Post-quantum cryptography is another important factor. Experts predict that quantum computers, which could mature within five to 20 years, will have significant implications for cybersecurity because of their ability to break existing encryption methods and digital signatures. Governments manage vast amounts of confidential information, like health records, infrastructure plans, and communications, that must remain secure for decades. By preparing now, agencies can safeguard critical operations, maintain public trust, and stay ahead of evolving cybersecurity threats.

— The intelligent core: Government agencies often have outdated systems that no longer meet current needs. AI and machine learning tools help modernize these systems without disrupting operations. AI can answer routine questions and process forms quickly, even with large volumes of text. While AI can simplify the user experience, it can also make systems more complex architecturally, requiring an investment in the workforce to manage it.

“By embracing advancements like AI and spatial computing, government leaders can position their agencies well to enhance both service delivery and operations,” said Dean Izzo, a client relationship executive with Deloitte LLP.