The original deadline for implementing the Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions telecommunications contract was 2020. The goal is to "facilitate a smooth transition to EIS while still encouraging agencies to modernize," officials said.

Zielinski has seen a quick rise as an IT acquisition leader at GSA.

Amid both a massive reorganization and ongoing IT modernization efforts, the General Services Administration is losing its technology chief.

Agencies with plans to transform their technology infrastructure will be more likely to get an EIS deadline extension, GSA officials said.

The agreement allows federal agencies to purchase database solutions through a single contract at a tiered, discounted rate.

Ely discusses the administration-led push for modernization and how it seems like a pivotal moment for progress.