Modernization
Technology to clear FOIA backlog underused, GAO finds
Releasing documents under Freedom of Information Act requests is part of an agency's mission, but some agencies are not making the most of tools that could help do it faster.
People
DOD, State, USAID say 'enough' to wartime contracting reforms
Three agencies have implemented some of the recommendations of the Wartime Contracting Commission, but now say they don't want to do more. Some senators are considering making it mandatory.
People
Current laws miss key points in protecting data
GAO says advancing technology has rendered many privacy rules inadequate and outdated, creating new risks.
People
EPA, GAO spar on IT cost estimates
GAO concludes that EPA estimates for an IT project lacked supporting documentation, but the environmental agency is objecting to the audit's findings.
Acquisition
Acquisition chiefs need clearer roles and responsibilities, GAO says
Without clearly-defined duties, the CAO may not have a strong basis for more permanent inclusion in an organization's leadership structure, auditors conclude.
Modernization
GAO: Agencies need standard guide for measuring consolidation
The government risks overspending and missed deadlines without a clear measuring stick for data center consolidations, audit finds.
Cybersecurity
Frivolous security clearances could diminish government transparency
Does everyone who has a security clearance really need it? At least one lawmaker argues that they don't, and says the effort to issue unneeded clearances comes with a significant cost.
People
BRAC bleeding DOD by the billions
The 2005 round of base realignment has cost $14 billion more than planned, so far, according to the GAO.
Cybersecurity
Government at high risk of economic espionage
With cyber theft and other crime on the rise, agencies must get aggressive in defense, according to the GAO.
Digital Government
Congress: Do we need all those GAO reports?
GAO and its many reports face renewed scrutiny as budget pressure heats up in Washington.
People
How agencies can ease congressional meetings
Meeting with the right congressional staff members who share an agency's goals can make briefings so much smoother, GAO says.
People
Is the military draft system on the chopping block?
The Selective Service System, which would administer a military draft if needed, hasn't been reevaluated in nearly 20 years, according to a GAO report.
People
GAO urges involving more partners in cross-cutting initiatives
Setting good goals is only part of the solution where programs that span multiple agencies are concerned, GAO says.
Acquisition
VA failed to set aside work for vets, GAO finds
A bid protest charged that VA officials didn’t comply with the law and regulations when awarding an emergency notification services contract.
Modernization
Tight budgets should not stall innovation, VanRoekel says
The public sector may have unique challenges but it could learn a thing or two from the industry.
People
Can DOD handle its business?
DOD has long been troubled by poor financial management, but 2012 could be the year it turns itself around.
Digital Government
FAA undermines its safety efforts with inadequate data, GAO says
The FAA is trying to improve its assessments of accidents and crashes, but a lack of good data is handicapping the effort.
People
Zients: Why streamlining government makes sense
Senior official at OMB lays out why reorganization authority is "common sense and good management."
Modernization
GAO sting operation exposes pervasive counterfeit parts problem
GAO finds it's all too easy to get fake electronics for military weapons systems.
Acquisition