Nova Scotia is bustling with e-government activity. And for Steven Feindel, a major force behind much of that activity, maintaining clarity is always top of mind.
“I am always making sure that everyone has a common vision,” said the province’s director of e-services for Service Nova Scotia and municipal relations. “I try to keep everyone on a common course with respect to what’s happening today with an eye towards where we’re heading in the future.”
Feindel began working with the provincial government four years ago. He was originally brought on board for a short-term role in an operational capacity. However, due to his technology background and the province’s desire to find people who would champion e-government services, Feindel said he gravitated towards more of a leadership role within the government and that’s where he currently finds himself.
“The work I do here is very exciting and it has kept me interested,” he said. “It really impacts customers positively.”
Currently, Feindel is working on enhanced change of address services, a motor vehicle fine payment system and portal technology within the government. While each initiative brings its own challenges, Feindel says change management requires constant attention.
“That continues to be a big one we wrestle with,” he said. “We’re always looking at whether it’s a front office or back office impact when we’re implementing new services. Trying to manage our way through that takes an awful lot of time in these implementations.”
And as time goes on, Feindel sees his role within the government changing.
“Traditionally, I’ve been involved in an implementation role when initiatives are being put in place. I see that changing over time to where I would perform more of a strategic planning role.”
