With the high cost and changing nature of technology, it can seem impossible for local governments to keep up.  However, by focusing on solving problems using technology rather than finding uses for technology, Catawba County has managed to stay ahead of the curve.  The benefits of this approach were obvious to Catawba County residents when the County declared a state of emergency in July, 2013.  Catawba County leveraged simple tools to respond efficiently and effectively when citizens needed it most.