It is often difficult to define, never mind embrace, a silver lining from occurrences that are so profoundly negative. However, government can, or more pointedly should, greatly benefit from our current, prolonged economic downturn.

In short, government at all levels (Federal, State and Local) is required to change its overall operational model – some entities already have or are well down the path. Operations, processes, and most importantly stakeholder/citizen interactions must change to accommodate current and future budget constraints. All of these changes must occur while providing citizens with enhanced customer services.