The Defense Digital Service (DDS), established in 2015, was initially tasked with modernizing the Pentagon’s IT infrastructure. While that core mission remains, DDS has evolved into a highly agile, rapid-response force tackling critical technological challenges across the Department of Defense (DOD). This article explores the transformation of DDS into what its director calls a “SWAT team of nerds,” focusing on its recent achievements and future direction.
From Modernization to Rapid Response: The Evolution of DDS 2.0
DDS’s initial focus was on long-term modernization projects. However, the team’s agility and expertise quickly proved invaluable in crisis situations. This shift was solidified during the COVID-19 pandemic. DDS played a crucial role in developing a symptom tracking app for sailors aboard the USS Teddy Roosevelt, securing critical data systems for Operation Warp Speed, and enhancing virtual hiring processes across the DOD. These “sentinel efforts,” as described by DDS Director Brett Goldstein, demonstrated the team’s ability to deliver solutions rapidly and effectively in high-pressure situations.
Leapfrogs and Fires: Defining the DDS Mission
Today, DDS balances two primary mission types: “leapfrog” projects and “fires.” Leapfrog projects focus on significant advancements in technology and concepts, such as cybersecurity initiatives. “Fires” involve responding to urgent crises, like the USS Teddy Roosevelt outbreak.
DDS’s cybersecurity work has expanded significantly. Beyond successful bug bounty programs like Hack the Pentagon, the team develops tools like Clone Wars and Crossfeed to enhance the DOD’s cyber hygiene and identify vulnerabilities.
Pilot Projects: Testing and Scaling Innovation
Beyond leapfrogs and fires, DDS undertakes pilot projects to test and scale innovative technologies. Instead of department-wide implementations, DDS adopts a more iterative approach. This is exemplified by leveraging successful cloud initiatives like the Air Force’s Cloud One and Platform One to promote cloud adoption across the DOD. This shift reflects a move away from large-scale, potentially controversial projects like the Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure (JEDI) contract, which DDS initially developed but was later transferred to the DOD’s Office of the CIO.
Rebuilding and Restructuring: A New Era for DDS
The transfer of JEDI and the departure of founding members provided an opportunity for a significant restructuring. Under Goldstein and Deputy Director Katie Olson, DDS rebuilt with a focus on security engineering and data science. The team expanded its expertise in areas like acquisitions, legal, and communications to enhance operational efficiency.
This rebuilding process also led to DDS gaining independence from the U.S. Digital Service (USDS), reflecting its maturity and sustainability. Goldstein and Olson personally vetted every new hire, fostering a tightly knit team of approximately 80 members with diverse skills and a shared commitment to the mission. Even during the pandemic, DDS continued to hire and onboard new talent remotely, developing best practices that were shared across the DOD.
The Future of DDS: Adapting to Evolving Threats
DDS’s future will likely involve addressing emerging challenges such as climate change and public health crises. Olson envisions DDS leveraging the DOD’s vast infrastructure to pilot renewable energy initiatives and explore energy-efficient solutions. Goldstein emphasizes the importance of aligning with Pentagon leadership to anticipate and respond to evolving threats outlined in the National Defense Strategy.
The core principle driving DDS remains a commitment to excellence. Goldstein rejects the notion of “good enough for government work,” emphasizing the importance of attracting top technical talent to address national security challenges effectively. The partnership between Goldstein and Olson, characterized by shared decision-making and strategic collaboration, is crucial to DDS’s continued success. This collaborative leadership ensures agility and responsiveness, allowing DDS to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of technological threats and opportunities.
