[BluSyn]

Real modernization of systems would result in efficiencies that allow for reduction in staff. Tech exists to be a lever on productivity. This almost never happens; historically bureaucratic modernization efforts only proceed if absolutely necessary for core functions, and strangely seem to result in higher head counts. IRS is a great example of this. Their headcount has doubled while they supposedly "modernized". Digital systems should increase productivity of the average IRS employee, instead they just invent more busy work.

[acdha]

Do you have any experience with this or are you just basing it on vibes? For example, I know people who’ve worked on modernization projects and they’ve never had opposition on the grounds you’re claiming: the problems are usually funding (Congress has to allocate money for it) and the significant cost and risk due to contracting the work out rather than hiring technical staff (also Congress).

The IRS is notable because they’ve been requesting funding for modernization since the 90s.