Oklahoma Unveils BEACON AI Platform

Oklahoma Launches BEACON, an Enterprise AI Platform

Oklahoma is taking a significant step forward in leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance government operations and improve services for its citizens. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) recently announced the launch of BEACON, an enterprise AI platform designed to streamline processes and deliver better experiences for Oklahomans.

The initiative aligns with Governor Kevin Stitt’s vision of making Oklahoma one of the top ten states for business. By equipping state agencies with advanced tools, the governor aims to foster efficiency, speed, and effectiveness in service delivery.

Leadership and Vision

The introduction of BEACON comes alongside the appointment of Oklahoma’s first Chief AI and Technology Officer, Tai Phan. Phan will lead the state’s efforts to integrate AI across various government functions. This strategic move underscores the state's commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology that supports both public and private sectors.

According to the Governor’s office, OMES is moving beyond isolated pilot projects to implement enterprise-scale solutions. These solutions will support 125 agencies, boards, and commissions under the guidance of Phan and the state IT team. BEACON has already developed its first set of applications, referred to as "lighthouse applications," which are high-impact projects designed to showcase how AI can solve real-world government challenges while establishing reusable models for future innovation.

Tools for Efficiency and Accuracy

The tools within BEACON are intended to support employees by improving the accuracy of information searches and helping agencies serve Oklahomans more effectively. Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, emphasized the importance of these tools in reviewing administrative rules to ensure they reflect the intent of the state Legislature and serve the people of Oklahoma.

Secretary of Licensing and Regulation Adria Berry, who participated in early beta testing, noted that the technology exceeded expectations and is expected to modernize operations across agencies. She highlighted the potential of the platform to help agencies review and simplify unnecessary rules and processes, making government more effective and easier to navigate.

Two Lighthouse Applications in Beta Testing

Currently, two lighthouse applications are in beta testing:

Administrative Rules Modernization – an AI-powered tool that helps policymakers and state employees review administrative rules, identify opportunities to simplify regulations, and support efforts to reduce unnecessary burdens on citizens and businesses.
Procurement Guidance Assistant – an AI-powered tool that provides state employees with real-time guidance on purchasing policies and procedures, helping agencies make informed decisions more efficiently while improving consistency and compliance.

These applications are developed by the OMES Information Services division, led by State Chief Information Officer Dan Cronin. The BEACON framework emphasizes human oversight and measurable public value. Cronin stated, “Modernization is not optional. We are building a more agile state government and setting a standard for the nation.”

Responsible Innovation and Workforce Modernization

BEACON leadership highlights the importance of modernizing the workforce with responsible innovation. Tai Phan emphasized that Oklahoma’s Accountable Innovation Operating Model simplifies the complicated AI landscape and focuses attention on public value. This model guides the state’s journey from isolated experimentation to responsible enterprise-scale adoption.

Through BEACON, agencies can rapidly build and deploy AI solutions on a secure, governed platform rather than starting from scratch. The platform enables mission-specific innovation while creating reusable capabilities that scale across state government. These initial lighthouse applications demonstrate how BEACON can deliver measurable results today and establish a foundation for sustainable AI adoption.

For more information about Oklahoma’s AI initiatives, visit oklahoma.gov/beacon.

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